Cavity optimization for compact accelerator-based free-electron maser
In previous works [1] we have successfully commissioned pre-bunched beam pumped free electron maser based on Stimulated Coherent Diffraction Radiation (SCDR) generated in an open resonator. An ultra-fast Schottky Barrier Diode (SBD) detector has enabled us to investigate the properties of the radiation in the range from 3 to 5 mm of wavelengths among broad frequencies stored in the cavity as well as the intrinsic properties of the cavity itself. We observed a turn-by-turn SCDR generated by a multibunch electron beam and directly measured the opened cavity quality factor of 11.4. In this report we represent the work directly related to optimization of both the maser system to achieve higher quality factor of the cavity essential to gain soft X-ray production via Thomson scattering in the next stage of the experiment and measurement system for better characterization of the maser light. One way of optimization is to minimize losses of energy due to transmission through resonator mirrors. For this purpose we have designed and constructed a test setup to investigate reflection and transmission properties of different mirror materials. Theoretical calculations have been performed using optical constants and theoretical models of electrical permittivity to compare with experimental results. In this report we summarize the experimental activity, represent new experimental results and represent steps undertaken to achieve the new resonator mirror design. For better understanding of the resonator performance a test of the SBD detector linearity is also demonstrated.
Coherent transition radiation in the far-infrared region.
Abstract A short-bunch beam of electrons of 150 MeV is led to an open resonator of semi-confocal type. The wavepackets of coherent transition radiation (TR), emitted from bunched electrons passing through mirrors of the resonator, go back and forth in the resonator and superpose on the subsequent bunches to stimulate coherent TR. The main mode is assigned as TEM 01 , and the intensity depends on the square of the beam current. The output intensity of the resonator is compared with the coherent spontaneous TR generated within the resonator to show amplification of radiation due to the stimulated emission.
Thomson scattering of coherent diffraction radiation by an electron bunch.
This paper considers the process of Thomson scattering of coherent diffraction radiation (CDR) produced by the preceding electron bunch in the accelerator onto one of the subsequent bunches. It is shown that the yield of scattered hard photons is proportional to N(3)(e), where N(e) is the number of electrons per bunch. A geometry is chosen for the CDR generation and an expression is obtained for the scattered-photon spectrum, with regard to the geometry used, that depends explicitly on the bunch size. A technique is proposed for measuring the bunch length using scattered radiation characteristics.