A 200 MHz High Power RF Amplifier

When muon beams are produced for high energy physics research, they initially have transverse and longitudinal emittances that are too large. Low frequency amplifiers (200 MHz is desired) at high power (10 to 30 Megawatt), with a power gradient of 5 MW/m, are required to ameliorate this problem This program will develop a low frequency, high power amplifier that meets these requirements. By modulating the current of an electron gun, the extracted radio frequency (RF) power from the system will be capable of producing a large range of output frequencies suitable for muon accelerator applications. In Phase I, a theoretical/simulation study with electron gun modulation experiments was conducted to develop a prototype design. The results demonstrated feasibility for the frequency range of interest (88-300 Megahertz). Phase II will build, test and develop a nominal 200 Megahertz, 13 Megawatt, compact, RF amplifier suitable for muon accelerators. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: An RF amplifier that operates the 20-1000 MHz range should find use in high-energy physics and microwave applications. In addition to muon accelerators, potential applications include UHF and television broadcasting; low-resolution long-range radar, ground-penetrating radar, and land-mine detection. The compact packaging of high RF power would allow for the insertion of these amplifiers into portable systems (including ground based, shipboard, and airborne), leading to broad market penetration, as replacements for current lower power systems become necessary