Influence of the beam-forming conditions on the development of space-charge oscillations in a long-pulse relativistic electron beam

The characteristics of the space-charge oscillations of a long-pulse relativistic electron beam in magnetically insulated diodes are determined for different geometries of the electron acceleration section and for explosive-emission cathodes of different materials. The important role of the stream of electrons having high transverse velocities in the evolution of the oscillations is demonstrated, and the laws governing the generation of this stream are determined. Possible mechanisms of the space-charge oscillations are described, taking into account the interaction of the electron stream in the beam halo with the main electron stream, the development of diocotron instability in the stream of electrons emitted by the outer lateral surface of the plasma emitter, and the instability of the space charge of “long-lived” electrons in the beam transport channel. Zh. Tekh. Fiz. 68, 102–106 (April 1998)