Dynamic Z-pinches for high-gradient, high-current acceleration

In this talk, we discuss planned experiments on acceleration of an injected ion beam in a Z-pinch plasma with MV/cm gradients and the first fully kinetic simulations of such beam-plasma systems. Multi-MeV, kilo-Ampere ion beams have been produced by 100 kJ class, centimeter scale, Dense Plasma Focus (DPF) Z-pinches. We have now demonstrated similar acceleration gradients in a 1 kJ DPF using a fast capacitive driver. Understanding the mechanisms behind these high gradients is essential for optimizing the device for unique compact accelerator applications. We have an RFQ accelerator producing a 4 MeV deuteron beam for probing the DPF plasma. Using this beam we can directly measure the gradients and demonstrate acceleration of an injected ion beam for the first time. Our fully kinetic particle-in-cell simulations have reproduced observed DPF ion beams. Direct comparisons between the experiment and simulations enhance our understanding of these plasmas and provide predictive design capability. These are the first steps to enabling a technologically simple, compact, high-current, plasma-based accelerator.