Development of diffraction radiation diagnostics for noninvasive beam size, divergence, and emittance measurements

The analysis and design for a nondestructive electron beam diagnostic that is based upon observing diffraction radiation (DR) is presented. DR is similar to transition radiation and is produced when the beam passes through an aperture or near an edge. Analysis of the DR permits a number of beam parameters to be determined, such as the beam's transverse size, longitudinal (temporal) distribution, divergence, emittance, and energy. Our analysis includes a procedure for separating out this information from the DR angular distribution pattern. This analysis then forms the basis for the design of a relatively simple and compact aperture or slit system that can be used to nondestructively measure these parameters in real time.