Optical emission observations of self magnetic pinch (SMP) diode driven by the RITS-6 accelerator

Summary form only given. Optical emission diagnostics have been used to observe self- magnetic pinch X-ray radiography diodes during operation on the RITS-6 accelerator (11 MV, 150 kA) at Sandia National Laboratories (SNL). Studies of this type inform flash X-ray radiography diode research from which an improved understanding of diode behavior and X-ray spot size evolution can be realised. The formation and propagation of both anode and cathode plasma have been investigated during electron-beam propagation and resulting X-ray radiation pulse. To facilitate shot to shot comparisons from this campaign and previous SMP data, the diode has remained unchanged from its standard configuration. Information obtained from line and continuum emission can provide key plasma parameters such as temperatures, densities, charge states, and expansion velocities. This paper summarises time-resolved emission spectra collected in the UV and visible from discrete points from the diodes axis of symmetry and at radial positions within the 12 mm A-K gap.