Time Resolved Plasma Characterization In A Long Conduction Time Planar Plasma Opening Switch

The success of relatively small and inexpensive pulsed power systems based on inductive energy storage depends on the development of efficient fast opening switches. The long conduction time plasma opening switch (POS) is a good candidate for the last stage opening switch in such a system. A basic understanding of the mechanisms involved in opening are needed to optimize the behavior of these switches. A starting point is a knowledge of the density of the injected plasma including electrode effects and density in the working switch.