Towards Optimization of the Paraxial Diode for X-Ray Radiography

The paraxial diode is a gas-filled focusing cell which is routinely used to transport high energy density electron beams for use in pulsed-power driven flash X-ray radiography experiments. Minimization of the radiographic spot size and maximization of the radiation dose is a continuing long-range goal for development of this diode. Suggestions for optimizing the radiographic utility of the paraxial diode are presented within the constraints of the physics of beam focal sweep and emittance growth.