Pressure profiling of 2.45GHz electron cyclotron resonance-based proton source for optimized performance

A high-current pulsed proton source (10–100[Formula: see text]mA at 35–50[Formula: see text]keV) is essential for the front-end injector of a high-intensity proton accelerator. To meet this requirement, a high-current electron cyclotron resonance-based proton source is being developed. Achieving an optimal plasma density within the plasma chamber and maintaining high vacuum levels in the extraction and beam diagnostic chambers are critical for efficient high-intensity beam extraction. Therefore, a comprehensive pressure analysis across the entire chamber is essential. This paper presents a 3D model along with simulations and optimization of hydrogen gas pressure, considering variations in inlet gas flow rate, electrode aperture size and pumping speed for effective differential pumping. The simulation results are validated against measurements from the operational source, and chamber pressures were optimized to ensure stable, reliable ion source operation without high-voltage breakdown.