Theoretical Studies of Intense Relativistic Electron Beam - Plasma Interactions.

Abstract

A comprehensive survey of intense relativistic electron beam physics is presented, including detailed discussions of selected topics. The beam-generated plasma is characterized through charge production rules for calculation of gas breakdown times, conductivity at breakdown, and current neutralization. Longitudinal electrostatic instability theory is reviewed in the context of typical beam-plasma parameters and a model explaining the low-pressure transverse instability (the frozen hose) is given. Transport phenomenology without external fields and with external linear pinch and solenoidal fields is discussed and models are developed to define efficient beam transport conditions.