Pulsed Power Research Articles

Snapping Endows Magnetoelectric Metamaterials with Passive Power-up Conversion.

Harnessing slowly varying or quasi-static magnetic fields, which typically lack the power to light an LED, to power devices with higher demands seems to be impossible if no additional power is supplied. Obviously, the key to overcoming this challenge is to achieve passive power conversion from low-power inputs into high-power outputs. Here, we propose that snap-through buckling─a mechanical instability phenomenon─within a magnetoelectric metamaterial enables passive power-up conversion. Our experimental results indicate that the instantaneous pulsed output power at snapping remains stable even as the frequency decreases by 100 times and exceeds the maximum magnetic input power by 27 times at a low working frequency of 0.01 Hz. Furthermore, for an array of magnetoelectric metamaterials with varying critical magnetic fields, we demonstrate that a series of pulsed outputs can result in continuous electrical output. We anticipate that these findings will open new avenues for advanced energy conversion technologies, underscoring a pioneering application of mechanical principles in materials science.

Pulsed power capacitor design based on 3D inkjet printing

Pulsed power capacitor design based on 3D inkjet printing

High capacitive energy storage in K0.5Bi0.5TiO3-based quaternary solid solution around morphotropic relaxor boundary

Energy storage capacitors are valued for their high power density and ultrafast discharging rates, positioning them as promising candidates for advanced electronic systems and pulse power technologies. This study developed a KBT-based solid solution composed of K0.5Bi0.5TiO3, Na0.5Bi0.5ZrO3, K0.5Bi0.5ZrO3, and Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3, located near a morphotropic relaxor boundary. This configuration results in a perovskite host with both high structural entropy and enhanced polarization capability. The incorporation of Bi(Zn2/3Nb1/3)O3 not only modifies the dynamic behavior of polar nanoregions but also increases the resistance contribution from the grain boundary, thereby improving the electrical breakdown strength Eb. Optimal polarization behavior and energy storage performance were achieved with 1.0 mol.% Bi(Zn2/3Nb1/3)O3 addition, resulting in a large field-induced polarization ΔP of 55.3 µC/cm2, a high recoverable energy density Wr of 6.52 J/cm3, and a high efficiency η of 80%. Overall, this work proposed a design strategy for developing KBT-based ceramics for energy storage capacitors.

Enhanced porphyrin-based hypoxia imaging by temporal oversampling of delayed fluorescence signal.

Protoporphyrin IX (PpIX) delayed fluorescence (DF) is inversely related to the oxygen present in tissues and has potential as a novel biomarker for surgical guidance and real-time tissue metabolism assessment. Despite the unique promise of this technique, its successful clinical translation is limited by the low intensity emitted. We developed a systematic study of ways to increase the PpIX DF signal through acquisition sampling changes, allowing optimized imaging at video rates. To accomplish signal increase, time-gating signal compression was achieved through changes in pulse frequency and power density, using sampling rates that are faster than the decay rate of the signal. The increased signal yield was tested and validated in vitro and then demonstrated in vivo, with comparison to settings that sample the full lifetime emission decay. Results in vitro and in vivo demonstrated that optimized timing could increase the detected intensity by a factor of 7. The images showed results that were superior than when sampling the full DF lifetime decay. The proposed timing optimization enhances PpIX-based DF real-time imaging of tissue hypoxia. By increasing sampling frequency and adjusting the acquisition gate and pulse width, the collected signal intensity improved sevenfold, demonstrated both in vitro and in vivo. The technique was shown to enable better visualization of small and anatomically challenging hypoxic structures. The improved target-to-background ratio and compatibility with pressure-enhanced sensing of tissue oxygen technique were demonstrated.

High-Voltage Pulsed Power Generator for Beam Injection Systems

Beam injection systems in hadron colliders require kickers generating ±50 kV peak voltages into a 50 Ω impedance, with peak currents of 1000 A and sub-10 ns rise and fall times. This paper presents a novel high-voltage pulse power generator utilizing a distributed pulser architecture. It combines gallium nitride (GaN) transistors in a Marx topology with an inductive adder, achieving nanosecond-scale switching speeds and high-power efficiency. Compared to other solutions such as based on MOSFETs or fast ionization dynistors, our development offers superior peak and average power performance, reduced system complexity, and enhanced reliability, marking a significant step forward in high-voltage pulse generation for accelerator applications.

Stable bias control of Mach-Zehnder modulator for arbitrary optical pulse picking via reference pulse power monitoring

Stable bias control of Mach-Zehnder modulator for arbitrary optical pulse picking via reference pulse power monitoring

Optical interferometry of high-energy nanosecond pin-to-pin discharges in atmospheric air

Abstract This paper describes the construction and application of an optical-frequency Michelson interferometer for measuring electron number density within high-energy, high-power nanosecond pin-to-pin discharges (>10 mJ pulse energy, >1 MW pulse power). A 21 mJ, 11 ns spark across a 3 mm pin-to-pin electrode gap was analyzed at 7 ns into the discharge to demonstrate the operation of the interferometer. A peak electron density of 2.3×1017 cm-3 was observed at these conditions, and it was consistent with estimates of plasma channel resistance based on V-I measurements. This initial work paves the way for a larger parametric study of the spatial and temporal dynamics of electron number density in nanosecond pin-do-pin discharges under various conditions.

Design of a pulsed eddy current testing power supply combining constant amplitude and clamp voltage control

Design of a pulsed eddy current testing power supply combining constant amplitude and clamp voltage control

Chemical Insights Into Nitrogen Oxidation Via Surface Dielectric Barrier Discharge Plasma Driven By Different Power Supplies

ABSTRACTDischarge modes of surface dielectric barrier discharge are influenced by various factors, with its underlying mechanisms still unclear. This study explores the effects of power input and N2/O2 ratios on NOx yield and selectivity using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy and analyzes the spatiotemporal evolution of discharges under alternating current (AC) and pulsed power sources. Results show that NO2 selectivity is higher under pulsed power compared to AC, with a peak of 56.2% at 30% N2 content. Increased power enhances NO2 selectivity to 49.6% in the pulsed‐driven system, while no significant change is observed with AC. The lower rotational temperature in pulsed power systems facilitates the O generation for further NO oxidation. These findings may provide new chemical insights into plasma‐enabled nitrogen oxidation.

A Comparative Study on Battery Modelling via Specific Hybrid Pulse Power Characterization Testing for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles in Real Flight Conditions

A Comparative Study on Battery Modelling via Specific Hybrid Pulse Power Characterization Testing for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles in Real Flight Conditions

Copper wire electric explosive crushing of large‐size reinforced concrete columns

AbstractThe application of pulse power discharge technology for the demolition of reinforced concrete structures offers several advantages, including energy savings, environmental protection, high construction efficiency, and the potential for recycling building materials. To investigate the effects of this technology on the crushing of large reinforced concrete columns, a finite element model of these columns was developed using ABAQUS software. The columns have dimensions of 600 mm × 600 mm and 700 mm × 700 mm. Two rows of holes with a specific depth were arranged along the length of the column. Simulation tests of copper wire electric explosion in water were conducted within these column holes. This study investigated the effects of the amount of longitudinal reinforcement, transverse stirrups, and concrete strength on the crushing effect. The impact load generated by the underwater electric explosion of copper wire on a concrete column was simulated using the coupled Euler–Lagrange method. For the first time, varying explosive source densities were proposed to represent different discharge energy levels. The concrete cracks induced by the impact load were modeled using a cohesion model, allowing for real‐time measurement of crack width to assess the crushing effect. Simulation results indicate that increasing the longitudinal reinforcement ratio on one side from 0.46% to 0.80% results in an average decrease of 29% in transverse crack width. Furthermore, elevating the volumetric percentages of stirrups from 0.38% to 0.81% leads to an average reduction of 35.6% in longitudinal crack width. The crushing effect of concrete columns diminishes slightly with an increase in concrete strength. Based on the simulation results, mathematical expressions for transverse crack width and longitudinal crack width, as well as key parameters such as longitudinal reinforcement ratio, volumetric percentages of stirrups, and concrete strength, were established. These findings can serve as a reference for the promotion and application of this technology.

Picosecond Laser Direct Writing of Micro-Nano Structures on Flexible Thin Film for X-Band Transmittance Function.

Recently, ultrafast laser direct writing has become an effective method for preparing flexible films with micro-nano structures. However, effective control of laser parameters to obtain acceptable micro-nano structures and the effect of micro-nano structure sizes on function of the film remain challenges. Additionally, flexible films with high X-band transmittance are urgently required in aerospace and other fields. In this work, we evaluate the feasibility of applying picosecond laser direct writing for fabricating micro-nano structures on the surface of flexible thin film and the relationship between the size of square columnar micro-nano structures and the transmittance of the flexible thin film. The results show that an array of square columnar micro-nano structures was achieved by picosecond laser direct writing on the surface of flexible thin film (Au-SiO2-PI) with a thickness of 50 µm. Additionally, excellent micro-nano structures morphology of the square columnar arrays without burning through or destroying were obtained by laser direct writing with a pulse power and frequency of 2 W and 100 KHz, respectively. The results also show that the X-band transmittance was effected by the characteristic of the square columnar array on the surface of the flexible thin film. The X-band transmittance was significantly increased by decreasing the length of the square column on the surface of the flexible thin film. The X-band transmittance was slightly increased by decreasing the width of the groove of the square column on the surface of the flexible thin film.

Over 100-kW peak power picosecond pulse generation at 2924 nm via efficient single-pass optical parametric generation with broadband tunability.

We report a high peak power mid-infrared (MIR) source via efficient optical parametric generation (OPG) in a piece of 50-mm-long MgO: PPLN crystal pumped by using a near-infrared (NIR) narrow-band picosecond laser source. The highest peak power of the idler pulse can reach ∼109.86 kW with a duration of ∼7.3 ps and wavelength of ∼2924 nm. Both the signal and idler pulses can be agilely tunable in repetition rate, from 500 kHz to 4 MHz, depending on the pump pulses. Through adjusting the operation temperature and switching the applied grating of the MgO: PPLN crystal, the emission wavelengths of the signal and idler can be broadband-tunable across the NIR range of 1430-1741nm and the MIR range of 2773-4156 nm, respectively. The root-mean-square errors of the delivered signal and idler average power are less than 1% for all operational parameters. Our result provides a simplified yet agile solution of a coherent MIR source featuring a high pulse peak power, customizable emission wavelength, exceptional operation stability, etc.

Fabrication and Analysis of BaTiO3-Nb2O5 Ceramics for Advanced Energy Storage Applications

As the demand for high-performance energy storage systems surges, dielectric materials have emerged as frontrunners due to their exceptional power density. Yet, their relatively low energy density has long been a bottleneck for practical deployment. This study breaks new ground by addressing this limitation, focusing on the enhancement of Barium Titanate-based ceramics for energy storage through the strategic incorporation of Niobium Oxide (Nb2O5). By investigating the effects of Nb2O5 on 0.98BT-0.02BMC ceramics, we unlock unprecedented improvements in both dielectric and energy storage properties. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis reveals the stability of a single perovskite phase across all compositions, paving the way for reliable performance. Most strikingly, the x = 4 composition delivers a groundbreaking dielectric constant (~2200) alongside a remarkable energy density of 1.40 J/cm3 and a recoverable energy density of 1.10 J/cm3, achieving an efficiency of 78.8%. These extraordinary results propel the material to the forefront of next-generation energy storage technologies, making it a powerhouse for high-demand applications such as power pulse systems. With its unparalleled combination of high energy density, exceptional efficiency, and long-term stability, this material holds the promise to redefine energy storage solutions, setting new benchmarks in both performance and reliability.

Rapid electrothermal upcycling hexachlorobutadiene (HCBD) polluted distillation residue into turbostratic graphene for enhanced electromagnetic wave absorption.

The trichloroethylene production industry generates high-boiling-point solid residues during rectification, which contain high concentrations of chlorinated contaminants, particularly hexachlorobutadiene (HCBD). Traditionally, these distillation residues are managed through co-incineration or landfilling, leading to environmental and economic challenges. In this study, we present a rapid and environmentally friendly electrothermal approach for both detoxifying and upcycling distillation residue into graphene-based electromagnetic wave (EMW) absorbing materials. By employing a DC power pulse discharge with a 10 s duration, we achieved over 99 % HCBD degradation efficiency. Characterization results indicate that the thermal shock transforms the distillation residue into high-value turbostratic pulse graphene (tPG). This tPG, featuring a unique structure, demonstrates substantial potential as an EMW absorber, with an effective absorption bandwidth of 3.9 GHz and a reflection loss of -42.0 dB at a minimal matching thickness of 1.6 mm. The method offers a sustainable, cost-effective solution for hazardous waste management, combining rapid processing with high-value material production.

Pulse power supply based on Marx-pulse transformer hybrid architecture with MOSFET-resistor-diode magnetic reset control method for dielectric barrier discharge application.

Nanosecond pulse power has many driving advantages in the dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) application field, including better discharge effect, higher discharge efficiency, and lower electrode temperature. A high-voltage pulse voltage power supply (HV-PVPS) with a multi-turn ratio linear pulse transformer (PT) based on Marx circuit and PT topologies are suitable for most DBD plasma applications with fewer expansion modules, lower cost, smaller volume, and higher reliability comparing with the all-solid-state Marx nanosecond pulse power supply. However, during the process of DBD driven by an HV-PVPS based on Marx and PT topologies, the PT is prone to magnetic core saturation, which limits the application for DBD. This paper proposes a novel MOSFET-resistor-diode (MRD) reset method based on the Marx switching control logic to solve the problem. Not only can this novel method solve the problem of magnetic core saturation but also can improve some critical parameters of the plasma discharge so that it enhances the strength of the discharge and augments the number of charged particles in the discharge space. This paper establishes a multi-module Marx-PT system model with an MRD magnetic reset branch. It proposes a control method for the model to improve the performance and efficiency of the system. Finally, a 15kV HV-PVPS prototype is built to verify the effectiveness of the proposed MRD PT magnetic reset method. The average pulse power output of the whole prototype is greatly improved, and it can achieve an average pulse power output of 400W. Furthermore, the electrode loads of different DBD reactors can be driven well.

Enhanced energy storage performance with excellent thermal stability of BNT-based ceramics via the multiphase engineering strategy for pulsed power capacitor

High-temperature resistance and ultra-fast discharging of materials are among the hot topics in the development of pulsed power systems.

Evolution of the electron distribution function during gas ionization by a sub-nanosecond microwave pulse of hundreds MW power

The electron velocity distribution function in the plasma, formed by gas ionization by a microwave pulse of sub-nanosecond timescale width and hundreds of megawatts power, is studied by a theoretical model and by 3D numerical simulations which confirm quite well the model. It is shown that the distribution function is defined by the field amplitude variation during the entire pulse. After the pulse's passage through the gas, the remaining plasma distribution function follows a decreasing power-law function. Experiments performed in a waveguide filled with helium gas confirm that energetic (from several keV to several tens of keV) electrons remain in plasma long after the pulse has crossed the experimental volume. These electrons continue the gas ionization over extended times up to tens of nanoseconds.

Managing the two mode outputs of triboelectric nanogenerators to reach a pulsed peak power density of 31 MW m−2

The TENG-MC system features dual-mode output with UO mode and LL mode. The LL mode can provide cathodic protection for 8 h after operating for 2.5 min. The UO mode constructs a pest prevention system that can penetrate insect egg walls.

Study, development and related application of a miniature compact pulsed power supply with high repetition frequency

Study, development and related application of a miniature compact pulsed power supply with high repetition frequency