Ultradense reproducible Z-pinch suitable for CO2 laser-pellet simulation experiments

Area of Science:

• Plasma Physics
• Laser-Plasma Interactions
• Fusion Energy Research

Background:

• High-density plasmas are crucial for inertial confinement fusion (ICF) research.
• Simulating ICF conditions requires precise control over plasma parameters.
• Previous Z-pinch designs faced challenges in reproducibility and stability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present the design and operational characteristics of a unique, reproducible linear helium Z-pinch.
• To evaluate the suitability of this Z-pinch for simulating CO(2) laser-pellet experiments.
• To investigate the plasma parameters at the critical density layer under laser irradiation.

Main Methods:

• Development of a linear, high-density helium Z-pinch device.
• Characterization of plasma temperature and critical density scale length.
• Irradiation of the pinched plasma with focused CO(2) laser at intensities of 10(12) W/cm(2).

Main Results:

• Achieved high plasma density (> 10(19) e(-)/cm(3)) and low temperature (17-30 eV).
• Determined a favorable critical density scale length (70-200 microm) for laser-pellet simulations.
• Observed electron quiver velocity to thermal velocity ratio (v(0)/v(th)) of approximately 2.8 at the critical layer.

Conclusions:

• The developed helium Z-pinch is a reproducible and effective tool for simulating CO(2) laser-pellet interactions.
• The plasma parameters achieved are suitable for studying laser-driven plasma phenomena relevant to ICF.
• Further research can leverage this Z-pinch platform for advanced ICF experiments.