Application of pulsed gas vents for plasma opening switches

Experimental results concerning the application of coaxial plasma guns with fast pulsed gas vents to provide the plasma for the microsecond plasma opening switch (MPOS) are reported. Various gases were used for the plasma production. Using the lightest gases (H/sub 2/, D/sub 2/) yielded the best MPOS performance and resulted in the highest voltage and impedance levels as the switch opened. The importance of the role of secondary plasma production is demonstrated. Analyses of MPOS parameters as a function of different types of plasma are shown.<
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