High Energy-Density Plasma Dynamics in Plasma-Filled Rod-Pinch Diodes
Abstract
High energy-density plasma (HEDP) is created using a plasma-filled rod pinch diode (PFRP) [1] on the Gamble II generator. HEDP is produced by a 1-2 MeV, 500 kA electron beam that deposits energy at the end of a tungsten rod. When the rod is tapered to a point, the energy density is estimated to reach 2.4 MJ/cm3 in about 10 ns, before rapid expansion decreases the energy density. Recent measurements show that the temperature peaks at about 30 eV at the time of maximum energy density, and that the time-averaged ionization is about +17, similar to MHD model predictions [2]. The plasma mass distribution is inferred from x-ray distribution measurements. The time-dependent mass distribution is used to calculate the mass density and plasma pressure. These measurements indicate the HEDP is strongly coupled ( = 35) with peak pressure (16 Mb) about 7 times greater than nekT.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2013
- Accession Number
- ADA606017
Entities
People
- Bruce V. Weber
- D. G. Phipps
- Deane F. Mosher
- J. P. Apruzese
- Joseph W. Schumer
- Stavros J. Stephanakis
Organizations
- United States Naval Research Laboratory