Analysis of beam-induced damage to the SLC positron production target

The nominal Next Linear Collider (NLC) positron production design is based on extrapolation of the existing SLAC Linear Collider (SLC) positron production system. Given that the SLC positron production target failed during a run, it is necessary to analyze the beam-induced damage to the target in order to validate the extrapolations on which the NLC target is based. The failed SLC target and its associated housing were sent to existing "hot-cell" facilities at LANL for analysis. The target material, a tungsten-rhenium "puck", was removed from the housing and analysed using photographic and X-ray methods. Leak-checking on the cooling system was performed. Sections were then removed from the target to determine the extent of internal damage to the material. High resolution photographs were taken and extensive hardness tests were performed on the irradiated and non-irradiated areas of the target material. The results of these analyses and conclusions applicable to the NLC target design are presented in this paper.