Initial LSP simulations of electron beam transport in gas filled drift cells and comparison with experiments performed on the eta II linear induction acceleration at LLNL

The Pulsed Power group at AWE are using the LSP (Large-Scale-Plasma) code to support the design of X-radiographic diodes for the forthcoming facility Hydrus. Part of the design process requires validation of LSP through various experiments. The aim of the work here is to demonstrate LSP's ability to model electron beam transport through gas cells. Previous work suggests the electron beam focuses in a betatron manner where it becomes appropriate to place the high Z target of the diode at the first focus. A Cherenkov radiation foil was used to locate the position of a betatron point or waist. Resistive current monitors gave the time evolution of the net currents which control the amount of beam sweep in the ionised gas. Light from the beam generated plasma was used to highlight the envelope of the electron beam.