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  • Open Access

Compact linear accelerator integrated with a high-power microwave source

Zi-Jing Zhang1, Weihao Liu2,*, and Hongliang Xu1,†

  • *Contact author: liuwhao@nuaa.edu.cn
  • †Contact author: hlxu@ustc.edu.cn
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Phys. Rev. Accel. Beams 28, 071302 – Published 25 July, 2025

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/cxkr-my9y

Abstract

Particle accelerators have played a pivotal role in scientific research, medical applications, and industrial processes. However, conventional radio-frequency accelerators face limitations due to their large size, high cost, and dependence on external microwave sources. This paper presents a novel linear accelerator design that integrates a high-power microwave source directly into the accelerator structure, eliminating the need for external drivers and enabling a more compact, cost-effective, and simplified system. The proposed design employs an X-band backward wave oscillator driven by a 50 keV hollow continuous electron beam. The generated microwave power is coupled into a central X-band standing-wave acceleration structure via a radial coupler. Simulations demonstrate that a witness beam passing through this structure can be accelerated from 50 keV to over 4 MeV across 10 acceleration cells. This work serves as a foundational study on integrated accelerator concepts, offering a pathway toward more efficient, scalable, and versatile particle acceleration systems.

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Outline

Information

Phys. Rev. Accel. Beams 28, 071302– Published 25 July, 2025
  • Received 22 April 2024
  • Revised 23 April 2025
  • Accepted 27 June 2025
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