Dynamics and X-ray emission of an X-pinch conducted on a small capacitive generator

The characterization of the dynamics and X-ray emission of a X-pinch configuration conducted in a compact capacitive generator are presented. The experimental measurements were carried out on a multi-purpose generator (1.2 micro F, 345 J, 47.5 nH, T/4 = 375 ns and Z = 0.2 Ohm in short circuit) which produces currents up to 122 kA with 500 ns quarter period, when wire load are used. Dark-field Schlieren and interferometry techniques were used to characterize the dynamics of the precursor plasma, plasma flares and plasma jet on the axes. The X-ray emission and the source size are evaluated with filtered PIN-diodes and aperture imaging technique respectively. In addition, X-ray plasma imaging and radiographic applications are presented. The experiments were conducted on W wires of different diameters. The experimental observations show a similar dynamic to those observed in experiments of higher current and shorter quarter period.

Work supported by PIA CONICYT Grant ACT-1115, PAI CONICYT 791100020 and FONDECYT Iniciacion 11121587.