X-ray enhancement from a plasma focus by inserting lead at the anode tip

Study of X-ray emission from a low-energy (1.8 kJ) plasma focus device powered by a 9 μF capacitor bank, charged at 20 kV and giving peak discharge current of about 175 kA by using lead inserted copper tapered anode is reported. The X-ray yield in different energy windows is measured as a function of hydrogen filling pressure. The maximum yield in 4π-geometry is found to be 27.3±1.1 J and corresponding wall plug efficiency for X-ray generation is 1.52±0.06%. The feasibility of the device as an intense X-ray source for radiography is demonstrated