Numerical simulation of ion beam generated in diode with anode plasma column

Ion beam generation in a high current diode with anode plasma slab has been studied. Ions are extracted from the anode plasma by a strong electric field of deep potential well (virtual cathode), arising after the propagation of relativistic electrons through the anode plasma slab. The movement of this potential well with the front part of the ion beam leads to a collective ion acceleration up to 10 MeV energy range.The authors wish to thank Dr. K. Jungwirth and Dr. J. Ullschmied for their interest and support and many helpful discussions.