Research Scientist Dr. Syed Hassan is assembling the tungsten electrodes back onto the FF-2B device in preparation for control experiments that we will be performing while awaiting the new beryllium anodes. The electrodes have been polished smoothly to “rejuvenate” them (fig. 1). The tungsten anode and cathode have been assembled onto the device. We still are on track to start these tests this month and go on to the new beryllium tests in April.
Figure 1. The 14 cm tungsten anode becomes less colorful after polishing(right) than before(left), but smoother. Bright rings around the base on right are made of indium. This soft, conductive metal makes for a tight bond with the steel plate, minimizing electrical resistance and eliminating arcing.
