Marx-based pulse generator with high-voltage gain

In this paper, a new configuration of Marx generator with high-voltage (HV) gain is presented for electroporation applications. Each module consists of one switch, one capacitor, and two diodes. The capacitors are charged in parallel with the input inductor and the input DC voltage source simultaneously; eventually, the charged capacitors are connected in series, and the HV output pulses are generated. The load is connected differently at the output stage, and there is not any switch at the output stage to generate the HV pulses. The majority of Marx generators suffer from the high number of modules to reach the desired pulse peak voltage. Due to the high-voltage gain of the proposed topology, fewer modules are needed to achieve the desired HV pulse peak voltage. Mathematical analysis is presented along with a full design of the system components. Soft switching reduces the switching power loss in this converter, which is presented in detail. A comparative study is carried out to demonstrate the advantages of the proposed structure. Finally, simulation and experimental results are presented to validate the proposed concept.