Numerical simulations for intense light-ion beam propagation in a channel under the influence of plasma inertia

Abstract

Intense light-ion beam (LIB) propagation through a plasma channel is numerically investigated by using a two-dimensional simulation code. Analyses are given for the LIB propagation which couples with the motion of the channel plasma. Although the electron back current neutralizes the LIB current under typical beam and channel plasma conditions, the Lorentz force of the electron back current expands the LIB radially. The expansion of the LIB depends strongly on the density of the channel plasma. A strong current of the order of 1 MA is shown to propagate stably in an argon plasma channel.