Victor V. Kuzenov, Sergei V. Ryzhkov
Abstract This review describes the current state of the art, methods, and techniques of neutron generation, as well as physical processes occurring in neutron tubes and compact (small-sized) neutron sources (and others axis-symmetrical devices) during their operation. The results of experimental and theoretical studies of deuteron acceleration in small-sized Penning sources, plasma ion diodes with magnetic isolation, generators based on plasma focus and laser influence, and neutron acceleration tubes of increased efficiency are presented.