Preliminary investigation of anomalous relativistic electron beam deposition into a 1017 to 1020 cm-3 density plasma

Based upon recent theoretical and experimental advances, the potential for using a 10 to 30 MeV electron beam to heat a 1017 to 1020 cm-3 density plasma has been investigated. Taking into account anode foil scattering, external magnetic field strength, electron-ion collision rate, beam self-magnetic field discontinuity, and plasma temperature, a coupling efficiency of 15 to 50% is achievable for such a plasma. Moreover, the beam generator requirements seem to be within present pulse power technology