Dielectric nonlinear transmission line

A parallel plate nonlinear transmission line (NLTL) was constructed. Periodic loading of nonlinear dielectric slabs provides the nonlinear capacitance and the gaps between provide linear inductive interconnects, this is essentially the same design used by Ikezi [1],[2]. The NLTL was modeled in a circuit simulation code using the experimentally measured form of the nonlinear capacitance. Dielectric loss included in the model as an equivalent series resistance derived from the measured loss tangent data affects the formation of RF oscillations. The diagnostics used on the experimental system are Bdots along the line and a current viewing resistor at the load. The diagnostics provide a measurement of the pulse evolution as it travels down the line. The waveforms from the experimental line qualitatively agree with the circuit model, showing no strong RF formation as a result of the loss.