These proceedings examine the physics for high current emission and conduction observed in hollow cathode-hollow anode switches including the pseudospark and BLT, particularly centered around the triggering and conduction phase. New applications include highly emissive cathodes for microwave devices

The purpose of the 1989 NATO ARW was to develop applications, and an improved understanding of the physics for high current emission and conduction observed in hollow cathode-hollow anode switches including the pseudo spark and BLT. New applications include highly emissive cathodes for microwave devices, accelerators and free electron lasers, high power tubes, electron and ion beams, microlithography, accelerators, and other plasma devices. Recent research has produced a new generation of gas-phase plasma switches that are characterized by very high current emission and conduction while...