Reflex Triode

"Reflex triode bremsstrahlung sources potentially provide warm X-ray sources (20 keV to 500 keV), capable of generating high doses (~10 cal/g gold) over exposure areas of ~20 cm2. This needed capability allows experimental verification of warm X-ray inducedthermomechanical response, SGEMP, and box IEMP models for achieving component and system certification to hostile environments.In a reflex triode, electrons reflex through a thin, high Z converter generating a relatively soft bremsstrahlung spectrum. Converter and cathode foils are vaporized during triode operation. Expansion of these vaporized materials impulsively loads thedebris shield causing a transient dynamic response. Deformation of the debris shield defines the maximum dose achievable.Stimulus and deformation of the debris shield can be reduced by minimizing the vaporized mass of converter and converter substrate and by selecting proper materials and configurations. Composite materials, particularly in a honeycomb configuration, canprovide very high moduli debris shields (low deformation) without sacrificing X-ray transmission.Phase I developed the capability to manufacture ultra-thin converters, designed an advanced composite debris shield, and developed an advanced reflex triode design. Phase II completes development of the optimized reflex triode and provides advanced reflextriode designs for Decade Quad, Double Eagle, Pithon and MBS stimulators."