The generation of recurring high-voltage X-ray impulses

Abstract

Voltage-multiplication devices, such as the Marx and similar inductance circuits, have been operated at high recurrence frequencies and used as voltage sources for X-ray generation. The merits of this arrangement and the problem of obtaining optimum X-ray efficiency are discussed in relation to the design of voltage network and X-ray tube.The operation of the generator depends upon the production of short rectangular pulses, and this has been achieved by incorporating delay lines in each stage of the generator. In consequence, the generator has a characteristic impedance which, for optimum efficiency, must equal the X-ray tube impedance. The latter is non-linear, but it is shown that this is an advantage rather than a disadvantage because it suppresses multiple reflections.The X-ray-tube problem differs from that of the ordinary constant-voltage tube in that a higher peak emission is required. The possibilities of using thermionic, field-emission or low-pressure gas-filled tubes are discussed.