Compact Nanosecond Magnetic Pulse Compression Generator for High-Pressure Diffuse Plasma Generation

Abstract

We report on the development of a low-cost, adjustable high-voltage/high-power nanosecond-pulse generator for diffuse plasma generation in a high-pressure gas-discharge cell. The generator produces scalable impulsions of 0–40 kV, at an adjustable pulse-repetition frequency up to 7 kHz. Details pertaining to its working principles, electrical architecture, components, and specifications are presented. Voltage and current pulses are measured for resistive loads of 1.5 $\text{k}\Omega $ to 5 $\text{M}\Omega $ . The energy per pulse along with the generator’s overall efficiency is presented as a function of the input voltage. A maximum value of 13.5 mJ/pulse can be delivered to a 3- $\text{k}\Omega $ load. Our preliminary investigation using a pin-to-plate geometry in air and at pressures up to 2.75 atm [280.5 kPa] demonstrates the production of uniform diffuse plasma volumes. The domain of existence of the diffuse plasma regime is briefly explored, as a function of pressure and voltage pulse amplitude.