A modular drift step-recovery diode generator for nanosecond pulse technologies

Abstract

A generator of nanosecond pulses with an energy of ~50 mJ, which provides switching of voltage pulses with an amplitude of ~17 kV and a rise time of ~4 ns at a repetition frequency of 8 kHz to a 75-Ω resistive load, is described. The load is matched to the generator output cable. The generator is based on an opening switch in the form of a unit of drift step-recovery diodes (DSRDs). The conditions for the efficient operation of DSRDs are provided by six self-contained modules each of which contains an IGBT transistor and a step-up saturable-core transformer. The results of an experimental study of the generator are presented. They indicate a high efficiency of the developed modular circuit, which makes it possible to increase the switched energy virtually in proportion to the number of used modules, and the possibility of reducing the switching energy loss in the DSRD unit in proportion to the number of diode assemblies connected in parallel. It is shown that the generator can be used for producing ozone and high-purity silicon tetrafluoride and also in an apparatus for purifying air of organic pollutants.