The dense Z-pinch as a plasma radiation source. 1: Quasi-static Bennett model

The radiative yield from a slowly rising current, pulsed power driven, frozen deuterium z pinch is investigated. This novel approach differs from the conventional z pinch plasma radiation source which is driven by a rapid current rise leading to a fast implosion. The slow pinch is modeled as an adiabatic contraction subject to Bennet pressure equilibrium and driven by a constant generator voltage of 500 kV. Electron degeneracy effects are included in the pressure, but, the resistivity is taken as purely classical. The Bremsstrahlung radiation spectrum evolves from thin to nearly thick during the collapse phase. The present simple model predicts results that suggest that such plasmas may be useful as a Plasma Radiation Source.