Plasma Lens for Super Neutrino Beam at BNL and Other Applications

Abstract

Preliminary ideas for novel pion capturing and focusing schemes are presented in this note. Although extensive simulations are needed before any conclusions can be drawn, a basic argument (plasma lenses can support larger currents; can shape discharge profile) is presented that suggests that Z pinches and spark channels deserve a further, more serious consideration for possible use in the proposed BNL super neutrino facility. A Z pinch or a Z channel combined with an intense relativistic electron beam, or the use of inverse pinch configurations to capture and focus both positive and negative pions into separate regions in space is an intriguing possibility that may benefit the muon collider. I.