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Laser-driven shock experiments in pre-compressed water: Implications for magnetic field generation in Icy Giant planets

Journal Article · · Journal of Chemical Physics
OSTI ID:936465
Laser-driven shock compression of pre-compressed water (up to 1 GPa precompression) produces high-pressure, -temperature conditions in the water inducing two optical phenomena: opacity and reflectivity in the initially transparent water. The onset of reflectivity at infrared wavelengths can be interpreted as a semi-conductor to electronic conductor transition in water and is found at pressures above {approx}130 GPa for single-shocked samples pre-compressed to 1 GPa. This electronic conduction provides an additional contribution to the conductivity required for magnetic field generation in Icy Giant planets like Uranus and Neptune.
Research Organization:
Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), Livermore, CA
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE
DOE Contract Number:
W-7405-ENG-48
OSTI ID:
936465
Report Number(s):
UCRL-JRNL-217068
Journal Information:
Journal of Chemical Physics, Journal Name: Journal of Chemical Physics Vol. 125; ISSN JCPSA6; ISSN 0021-9606
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English