Abstract
In this review we present main results of experimental research of passive and active plasma sources for high-current electron beam generation obtained during the last few years in our Plasma & Pulsed Power Laboratory. We will describe passive plasma sources (ceramic-metal, velvet and carbon fiber cathodes) based on flashover plasma and active plasma sources based on a ferroelectric plasma source (FPS) as well as on an FPS-assisted hollow anode (HA) plasma source. The main data concerning the plasma parameters (plasma density and temperature, plasma uniformity and plasma potential) and the main features of these plasma sources (plasma formation, life time, vacuum compatibility) will be discussed. Also, data concerning electron diode operation and parameters of the generated electron beam while using these plasma sources will be presented.
