Use of High Energy, Short Pulse Explosive Generators to Drive Electromagnetic Implosions
Abstract
The feasibility of using high energy (about 5 MJ), short pulse time (about 2 microseconds) explosive generators to drive electromagnetic implosions is investigated theoretically. Detailed calculations show that the generated energy can be transferred to imploding plasma discharges with efficiencies exceeding 50 percent. The creation of multimegajoule plasmas is possible using moderate amounts of high explosive (about 25 kg). By employing more generators, plasma implosion speeds in excess of 100 cm/microseconds and kinetic energies exceeding 10 MJ are computed. Such plasmas can be used to compress other plasmas and/or magnetic fields or to produce high power prompt radiation at levels in excess of 10 to the 14th power W. Practical factors limiting generator performance are considered in detail. Specific areas of concern include resistive heating, internal arcing, and conductor dynamics. Two types of generator designs are investigated, both based on plane detonation systems. One design is a parallel plate generator and the other a new coaxial configuration. Relative advantages and disadvantages are discussed and some initial experimental work related to the new design is presented.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1975
- Accession Number
- ADA010046
Entities
People
- Peter J. Turchi
- Robert S. Caird
Organizations
- Air Force Research Laboratory