Plasma-filled rod-pinch diode research on gamble II

The plasma-filled rod-pinch diode (PFRP) produces an intense, small x-ray source suitable for pulsed hydrodynamic radiography applications. This paper summarizes measurements of the radiographic properties of the PFRP. The small x-ray source diameter [0.4-mm full-width-at-half-maximum line-spread function] and high dose [23 rad(CaF2) at 1 m] with 1–2 MeV electron energies are unique capabilities that the PFRP offers for radiographic imaging in this electron-energy range. The source distribution has a narrow central peak that can enhance the spatial resolution relative to other sources with the same spot size (by standard definitions). The spectrum has enhanced emission of sub-300 keV x-rays that can improve the contrast of objects with low areal mass.