Design of Novel Induction Accelerator Gaps

41018 November 19, 1996 Fusion and Accelerator Research This project will develop an acceleration gap, a key feature required to make future linear colliders technically and economically feasible. The acceleration gap must satisfy three major criteria: hold-off of the applied 100 kV voltage, low transverse impedance for beam break-up minimization, and low longitudinal impedance at the beam modulation frequency and harmonics to minimize power loss. Preliminary studies indicate that the transverse impedance should be less than 5400 Ohms/m, and longitudinal impedance for 11.4 giga-Hertz should be less than 2.5 Ohms/m. Phase I will explore various gap geometrics and materials to optimize the gap design. In addition, two novel design techniques will be introduced: (1) the use of a new insulator technology in which the insulator is comprised of thin layers of standard insulating material alternating with finely spaced floating metal electrodes, and (2) the use of thin metal films to cost standard ceramic insulators. These designs will lead to the manufacture and test of a prototype induction acceleration gap during Phase II. Anticipated Results/Potential Commercial Applications as described by the awardee: The acceleration gap design should satisfy the technical requirements for the two-beam next linear collider (TBNLC) induction cells and should lead to significant reductions in the construction and operational costs of induction accelerators. The technology could also apply to other induction accelerator applications, for example, Free Electron Laser drivers and material processing.