Effects of plasmas on electron beam transport in a fast magnetic kicker

Summary form only given. The use of a fast kicker is planned for the 2/sup nd/ axis of DARHT to achieve multiple pulse radiography capability. In this study, we investigate the processes of plasma formation in the vicinity of the kicker and the effects of plasma contamination on the transport of the DARHT relativistic electron beam (20 MeV, 2.0-4.0 kA) in the kicker-septum assembly. The effect of varying plasma density on the beam is quantified, and possible mechanisms and time scales for plasma formation are examined. Methods of mitigation will also be discussed.