Pulsed power accelerator technology based on solid-state semiconductor opening switches (SOS)

In 1991 we discovered a semiconductor opening switch (SOS) effect that occurs at a current density of up to 60 kA/cm
²
. The discovery of the effect provided a basis for the development of an opening switch with a gigawatt level of pulsed power, with an interrupted current of scores of kilo amperes, with a voltage of up to 0.5 MV, and with a current interruption time of 10 to 50 ns. Subsequent to those experiments, we developed a new circuitry ideology of constructing repetitive megavolt generators and accelerators with an all-solid-state switching system. In this approach, the SOS performs the function of a terminal power amplifier, by transforming the microsecond pumping pulse into a nanosecond output pulse. Significantly, the thyristor transformer delivers power to the SOS via an intermediate magnetic compressor. We present results of theoretical and experimental investigations of the SOS effect and describe the circuits and design of accelerators developed on the basis of it.