Usage of Electron Beams for Near-Petabyte CD-Data Storage and Bulk Materials Processing

High power, superconducting electron linear accelerators represent a new method of producing highly focused and bright electron beams (Ebeams). These instruments have exciting applications in the area of free electron lasers and directed energy weapons, but are costly and the two markets are small and highly specialized. Using these high energy Ebeams for materials processing may open up additional markets and provide a technological edge in applications exhibiting material-based deficiencies. In Phase I, Mainstream identified several materials processes, determined the required Ebeam parameters and projected their respective market sizes as well as commercial feasibility. In Phase II Mainstream will demonstrate Ebeam processing of selected materials with target applications and assess their application in technologically deficient areas. To accomplish this, a new type of superconducting electron linear accelerator will be constructed in partnership with a leading US Ebeam manufacturer and software will be developed to aid technicians in predicting the required Ebeam processing parameters. Phase II development will establish a marketplace for these highly specialized Ebeams as well as demonstrate several new materials technologies, which will be transitioned to high value and high demand products during follow-on effort.