X-Ray Emission from High-Voltage Hydrogen Thyratrons

In the operation of high-voltage hydrogen thyratrons, the bombardment of the anode by high-energy electrons causes the production of X-rays. The X-ray output of three types of high-voltage hydrogen thyratrons has been studied to determine the generation of X-rays as a function of the operating parameters. The beam pattern and the energy and intensity of the emitted X-rays are included. It has been determined that emission occurs during the breakdown of the pulse and during the interpulse interval as a result of grid emission. The beam pattern is defined by the geometry of the tube and is a narrow beam emanating in a circle from the grid-anode region. Values for the X-ray energy and intensity and for protective shielding are given.