High Brightness Proton Beams for LHC: Needs and Means

Experiments [1, 2] have proven that the LHC injector chain can deliver a proton beam with the nominal characteristics (bunch intensity Nb=1.15E11 protons per bunch (ppb) in normalised rms transverse emittances of 3.5 mm.mrad), but cannot reach the ultimate performance (1.7E11 ppb in the same emittances). Moreover, in the longer term, an even higher beam brightness is required by all methods considered for increasing the LHC luminosity beyond the present ultimate level. Improvements and/or new processes are therefore needed, especially in the low energy accelerators. A number of solutions have already been imagined for the PS complex that involve new linac(s) or/and sophisticated beam gymnastics. The present capabilities and limitations of the accelerator chain are described. The needs of the possible LHC luminosity upgrades are outlined, the proposed improvements are explained and their features and performance are compared.