Engineering, Demonstrations & More
High-voltage electronics, classroom demonstrations for AP/IB programs, and research applications.
Engineering Modules
Electronics and high-voltage systems for the Alpha-E platform.
High-Voltage Power Supply Electronics
Learn about the high-voltage power supply (HVPS) electronics necessary for plasma and ion beam applications. The plasma cavity in the ion source is held at a high potential (1–100 kV), facilitating the extraction of ions to form a beam moving towards a target at ground potential. Using high-voltage circuit architectures such as the flyback converter and LLC resonant topology, you will design and prototype power supplies that feed a Cockcroft-Walton multiplier to generate the high DC voltages required for ion-beam acceleration.
Topics
Required Hardware
- HV circuit kit
- Plastic enclosure and HV standoffs
- Flyback converter PCB
- EMC filter PCB
- LLC resonant PCB
- Cockcroft-Walton multiplier
- HV probe
- Set of HV wiring and miscellaneous parts
- Multimeter
- Oscilloscope
High Voltage Insulation in the Alpha-E System
Content in development
Classroom Demonstrations
The Alpha-E system provides a unique platform for live demonstrations in a variety of physics subjects.
The Alpha-E can be easily set up in any room with sufficient table space and ventilation, making it ideal for demonstrations in AP Physics, International Baccalaureate Physics, and university courses.
Electromagnetism
- Demonstrate the relationship between electric potential and electric field
- Show how charged particles move in electric fields using time-of-flight measurements
- Demonstrate the concept of stopping power with thin aluminum foil
Nuclear Physics
- Measure the energy spectrum of D-D fusion products and compare with predicted energies
- Demonstrate ionization by observing tracks in a cloud chamber
- Show how fusion particles interact with matter through different thicknesses of foil
- Illustrate radiation safety with proper handling techniques
Quantum Mechanics
- Illustrate quantum tunneling by measuring fusion products at several beam energies below the nuclear potential barrier
- Demonstrate quantization through the emission spectrum of the ion beam measured with a spectrometer
AP & IB Physics Programs
The Alpha-E system can be used to illustrate concepts in electromagnetism, nuclear physics, and quantum mechanics as taught in Advanced Placement Physics or International Baccalaureate Physics programs.
IB Independent Project
Students can design and conduct their own experiments with guidance from instructors and Alpha Ring scientists and engineers. Projects may include CAD design, 3D printing of custom fixtures, electronic circuit design, AI and deep learning tools, and relating experimental observations to real-life problems.
Diagnostic Tool & Training Platform
Research labs and nuclear energy companies can utilize Alpha-E as a diagnostic tool or training platform. Organizations engaged in detector development, ion beam physics, or other activities can also benefit from the modular characteristics of the Alpha-E system.
Interested in a custom program?
We can tailor workshops and demonstrations to your needs.