GATOR ProjectGenerator Based on Nonlinear Transmission Lines for High-Power Microwave Transmission
Project name: Generator Based on Nonlinear Transmission Lines for High-Power Microwave Transmission
Object: The proposed work consists of two parts: a theoretical component, focused on understanding and mastering the physical phenomena involved in the generation of high-power waves, and a component dedicated to technological implementation. The final result of the project will be a compact electromagnetic transmission system, comprising an antenna array, several NLTLs, and synchronizable solid-state generators.
Start date: November, 2026
End date: November, 2029
Coordinator: Common Laboratory SAGE
Scientific manager at the SIAME: PECASTAING Laurent
Permanent members of the SIAME involved: ZAHBIN Alexey, SILVESTRE de FERRON Antoine
Contract Type: CEA PhD position as part of the LRC SAGE
Partner(s) : CEA Gramat
Project description
This project aims to advance the understanding, modeling, and technological development of gyromagnetic nonlinear transmission lines (GNLTLs) for the generation of high-power microwaves.
A primary focus will be on improving the existing model to reduce the discrepancies observed between simulations and experimental results. The work will notably incorporate the frequency dependence of material properties and a more precise description of electromagnetic and magnetic phenomena, including the development of co-simulation approaches that couple the Maxwell and Landau-Lifshitz-Gilbert equations. Particular attention will be paid to increasing the duration of the generated oscillations. To this end, various low-loss ferromagnetic materials will be characterized at high frequencies and incorporated into the model. The influence of dielectric properties and line geometry will also be studied to identify the most efficient configurations.
The second research area will focus on the technological development of compact, reliable GNLTLs capable of delivering microwave power in the range of several tens of megawatts. Multiple lines can be combined and synchronized to increase the total power generated. The design will also be optimized to ensure operation at voltages of up to 200 kV and to improve resistance to electrical stresses. Compact magnetic polarization solutions will be developed. Finally, the repetitive operation of the GNLTLs will be studied experimentally to identify and push the limits of repetition frequency. All of this work will enable the current demonstrator to evolve into a high-power microwave source that is more compact, efficient, reliable, and suited for repetitive operation.
