Space charge induced losses in the CERN injector complex

Abstract

Space charge effects in high intensity and high brightness synchrotrons can lead to undesired beam emittance growth, beam halo formation and particle loss. A series of dedicated machine experiments has been performed over the past decade in order to study these effects in the particular regime of long-term beam storage as required for certain applications. This paper gives an overview of the present understanding of the underlying beam dynamics mechanisms, with particular emphasis on space charge induced losses and the experience gained at the CERN injector complex. The focus is on the space charge induced periodic resonance crossing, which has been identified as the main mechanism causing beam degradation for long storage times. Examples of space charge driven and error driven resonances are presented, including possible mitigation strategies. Furthermore, an outlook for possible future directions of studies is presented.