Experimental characterization of a puff-gas z-pinch plasma prior to implosion

Journal Article · Sat Jun 15 00:00:00 EDT 1985 · Appl. Phys. Lett.; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1063/1.95731· OSTI ID:5545248

Smith, III, R S; Doggett, W O

An argon annular puff-gas z-pinch has been experimentally investigated during the early phase of the current pulse using a magnetic flux probe and streak interferometry. The current is seen to follow the flared outer edge of the gas jet and to be returned primarily at axial positions z<15 mm by six posts supporting the wire mesh anode. A theoretical estimate of the skin depth agrees with the measured approx.1-cm thickness of the current sheath. The electron to neutral density ratio is determined to be peaked both near the posts and near the cathode.

• Research Organization: North Carolina State University, Box 8202, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695-8202
• OSTI ID: 5545248
• Journal Information: Appl. Phys. Lett.; (United States), Vol. 46:12
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY
ARGON
IMPLOSIONS
PINCH EFFECT
PLASMA SHEATH
CATHODES
LINEAR Z PINCH DEVICES
PROBES
SKIN EFFECT
STREAK PHOTOGRAPHY
THICKNESS
DIMENSIONS
ELECTRODES
ELEMENTS
FLUIDS
GASES
LINEAR PINCH DEVICES
NONMETALS
OPEN PLASMA DEVICES
PHOTOGRAPHY
PINCH DEVICES
RARE GASES
THERMONUCLEAR DEVICES
700104* - Fusion Energy- Plasma Research- Plasma Kinetics-Experimental- (-1987)
700105 - Fusion Energy- Plasma Research- Plasma Kinetics-Theoretical- (-1987)