The NTG-2 small-sized sealed accelerating tube for neutron generation

Results of developing and testing small-sizes sealed accelerating tubes NTG-2 with penning ion source and heated cathode are presented. Physical and technical characteristics of two modifications in metal-glass and ceramic design (NTG-2-1 and NTG-2-3 correspondingly) correspond to the best foreign analoques. Optimal geometrical dimensions of neutron tube electrodes were computer-modulated proceeding from the necessity of conducting accelerated beam of hydrogen isotope atom ions onto the target providing for efficiency of the greatest part of its operational surface in accordance with ESTA program. The following characteristics were obtained in the course of testing neutron tubes: maximum neutron yield 3x108 s-1 by the current onto the target of 400 μA; nominal neutron yield 1x108 s-1 by the current onto the target of 150 μA; frequency 0.1-20 kHz