Simulation codes for light-ion diode modeling

TLDR

Applied‑B ion diodes generate intense ion beams for inertial confinement fusion experiments at Sandia National Laboratories. The study describes the computational tools used to investigate light‑ion diode physics. Computer codes simulate the accelerator’s energy storage, pulse forming, power flow, magnetic field diffusion, electromagnetic fluctuations, beam divergence, propagation, and diagnostic responses. The codes are presented along with representative simulation results.

Abstract

The computational tools used in the investigation of light-ion diode physics at Sandia National Laboratories are described. Applied-B ion diodes are used to generate intense beams of ions and focus these beams onto targets as part of Sandia's inertial confinement fusion program. Computer codes are used to simulate the energy storage and pulse forming sections of the accelerator and the power flow and coupling into the diode where the ion beam is generated. Other codes are used to calculate the applied magnetic field diffusion in the diode region, the electromagnetic fluctuations in the anode-cathode gap, the subsequent beam divergence, the beam propagation, and response of various beam diagnostics. These codes are described and some typical results are shown.