Charged particle dynamics in X-type neutral points

We have developed a novel algorithm for the calculation of test particle orbits in electromagnetic fields. We have applied this to the problem of determining ion and electron orbits in an X-type magnetic configuration, of a type that may occur during reconnection in the corona above a flaring region. Particles in our simulation gain energy through interaction with the normal modes of oscillation of the X-type structure. We find that the addition of a longitudinal magnetic field component to a model proposed by Craig and McClymont (ApJ 371, L41 (1991)) produces a much greater efficiency in accelerating protons. Results of different simulations axe presented and the sensitivity of the results to the parameters of the magnetic environment is discussed.