A simple knife-edge design for initial phase optimization in plasma focus
A simple knife-edge design was described that enabled easy optimization and investigation of the initial phase for the plasma focus devices. It enhanced the initial breakdown process along the insulator surface by allowing free adjustment or fine-tuning of the insulator length and by forming a sharp knife-edge with effective field emission. The plasma pinching was much improved with neutron yield equal or above that predicted by the scaling law. This knife-edge design is especially suitable for the optimization of medium and large-scale plasma focus devices where it would be otherwise rather difficult to modify the insulator configuration directly.