Dynamics of Dense X-Pinch and Z-Pinch Plasmas Produced by Pulsed Power Generators

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This project is concerned with the dynamics of dense x-pinch and z-pinch plasmas produced by submicrosecond pulsed power generators. An x- pinch consists of at least two fine wires stretched between output electrodes of a high power pulser such that they cross and touch in the form of an X. Powered by 400-500kA, 80ns current pulses, the resulting plasma is a very intense, submillimeter source of soft x-rays (starting with metal wires) or neutrons (starting with deuterated polyethylene fibers). The objective of this study is to understand the dynamics of x-pinch plasmas so that possible applications (e.g., to microlithography, imaging of living cells and determining the spatial resolution of a neutron detector) can be intelligently evaluated. To accomplish this effectively, a pulser designed specifically to power the x-pinch will be built, and dense x-pinch plasmas (as well as the simpler z- pinches for comparison) will be studied with 1ns time and 0.1mm space resolution using optical and x-ray diagnostic techniques. Soft x-ray measurements will be used to probe the dense core plasma, and interferometry and Faraday rotation measurements will probe the surrounding region. The purpose of these measurements is to determine the mass density and current density distributions as a function f time. From these quantities, the various phenomena observed in x-pinch (and z-pinch) implosions can be understood.