Analysis of the Operation of the Microwave Ion Source in the Electron–Cyclotron Resonance Mode for a Portable Neutron Generator

Abstract

The authors present the results of numerical simulation of the kinetic processes in deuterium microwave-resonator plasmas with electron–cyclotron resonance at a nonuniform distribution of the magnetic and electric fields. For the actual configuration of the resonator module, the authors show the optimal magnetic field distribution in terms of energy efficiency. The solution of the kinetic scheme of the microwave discharge in deuterium plasmas makes it possible to relate the gas-discharge plasma properties with the parameters of the deuterium-ion source: the residual gas pressure, the gas flow into the microwave resonator, the charged particle flows on the wall and into the ion-optical system, the electrical and magnetic field strength and distribution in the resonator, and the power input into it. The results make it possible to reveal and implement generator operation modes with the highest characteristics ever recorded.