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Radio Frequency Pulse Compression Using a Diamond Switch--Alameda Applied Sciences Corp., 2235 Polvorosa Avenue, Suite 230, San Leandro, CA 94577-2249; 510-483-4156
Dr. Rahul R. Prasad, Principal Investigator
Dr. Mahadevan Krishnan, Business Official
DOE Grant No. DE-FG03-99ER82736
Amount: $99,938
This project will develop a new type of radio frequency (RF) pulse compressor based on a diamond membrane that can be turned from its normal insulating state (thus transmitting RF) to a conducting state (thus reflecting RF) when irradiated by a fast pulse (~1ns) of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This pulse compressor would enable the generation of high power (>50 MW) X-band and higher frequency RF systems required for the Next Linear Collider. Phase I will use a low power RF source to demonstrate that a diamond window transparent to RF radiation will reflect the same RF radiation when UV radiation is absorbed by the window. The reflection of microwave power from the window will be measured to determine the UV power required for practical devices. Then, a diamond pulse compression RF switch will be designed for a higher power RF source to be validated in Phase II.
Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: The technology should be applicable to next generation particle accelerators, semiconductor fabrication processes, medical applications, high range resolution (clutter rejection) radar systems, and directed energy weapons.