Neutron generators based on microwave sources of heavy hydrogen nuclides (Review)

Abstract

Physical principles of operation of high-efficiency neutron accelerating tubes based on microwave heavy hydrogen nuclide sources using the electron-cyclotron resonance (ECR) effect are considered. The most promising domestic and foreign designs in this area are analyzed. Generation of electromagnetic oscillations in the working volume of the ion source of an accelerating tube with the boundary excitation of a microwave discharge is simulated. In this case, the resonator and waveguide modes of ECR plasma production are considered. The frequency dependences of the flux density of the energy transmitted from the alternating electromagnetic field to the electron plasma component, on the induction of the longitudinal magnetic field and the pressure in the discharge chamber are also given. The results of the performed studies may be used to develop efficient portable neutron generators based on accelerating tubes with microwave hydrogen nuclide sources.