Radiographic Properties of Plasma-Filled Rod-Pinch Diodes

The plasma-filled rod-pinch diode (PFRP) is a new X-ray source appropriate for pulsed hydrodynamic radiography with endpoint voltage in the 1-2 MV range. The use of a plasma prefill in a rod-pinch-electrode configuration results in intense concentration of a 150-300 kA, ~2 MeV, ~100 ns electron beam at the tip of a tapered tungsten rod, producing an X-ray source with a submillimeter diameter and a dose of 25 rad (CaF
₂
) at a distance of 1 m. These parameters are superior to conventional vacuum diodes used for radiography in this electron-beam energy range. The narrow X-ray source distribution and enhanced emission of X-rays with energies less than 300 keV are unique features of the PFRP that may be exploited for improved resolution and dynamic range for radiographic applications.