Observation of Rayleigh-Taylor-Like Structures in a Laser-Accelerated Foil.
Abstract
Laser-accelerated targets have been predicted to be subject to the Rayleigh-Taylor hydrodynamic instability. The development of the instability was studied by introducing mass thickness variations in foil targets and observing the development of the target nonuniformities by side-on flash x radiography. Observations were made of target structures and mass redistribution effects which resemble Rayleigh-Taylor bubbles and spikes, including not only advanced broadening of the spike tips on the laser-irradiated side of the foil but also projections of mass on the unirradiated side. The observations compare well with numerical simulations. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 19, 1984
- Accession Number
- ADA140294
Entities
People
- Edgar A. McLean
- John A. Stamper
- M. H. Emery
- R. R. Whitlock
- Stephen P.P. Obenschain
Organizations
- United States Naval Research Laboratory