MPPE (Multiple Pulse Propagation Experiment) results

The multiple pulse propagation experiment (MPPE) was conducted by the Beam Research Group of the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory from September 1989, through January 1990, using the advanced test accelerator (ATA). This experiment represents the culmination of the three previous beam propagation experiments conducted at the ATA over the past half decade. Highlights of this experiment were the multiple pulse operation of ATA, and the diagnosis of the beam propagation, and channel production at the higher repetition rates. A large database was collected on beam propagation in uniform gas and channels including m = 0 beam size and net current measurements; and m = 1 hose measurements. The generation and evolution of the electron beam driven channels was well documented. A key result of this experiment was that the beam was dominated by hose instability which limited propagation ranges. This report is organized into five sections. The experimental layout and beam parameters have been detailed in previous reports. First the beam initial conditions will be discussed in detail. Since beam injection parameters are ultimately the only variables one can specify in an atmospheric application, the control and documentation of the beam at the entrance to the gas is crucial. Next the beam lead pulse propagation in gas will be reported. Lead pulse results will be compared with past experiments. The density channel production and evolution will be briefly reported; an additional reference is available. Beam propagation in the channel will then be examined. Finally, conclusions will be presented.