Use of synchrotron-based radiography to diagnose pulsed power driven wire explosion experiments

Area of Science:

• High Energy Density Physics
• Materials Science
• Synchrotron Radiation Applications

Background:

• Pulsed power experiments generate extreme conditions relevant to equation of state and materials research.
• Traditional optical diagnostics are limited in probing shock waves and internal structures in such experiments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate the first use of synchrotron radiation for diagnosing pulsed power driven high energy density physics experiments.
• To overcome limitations of optical diagnostics in studying shock waves and exploding materials.

Main Methods:

• Utilized multi-frame X-ray radiography with sub-100 ps temporal resolution at the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF).
• Diagnosed electrical explosions of various wire configurations (single, parallel, x-pinches) in water.
• Employed phase contrast imaging for enhanced visualization of fine details.

Main Results:

• Achieved imaging of shock wave structures and internal wire details with up to 8 μm resolution.
• Successfully visualized the dynamics of single copper/tungsten wires, parallel copper pairs, and copper x-pinches during explosion.
• Obtained clear images of shock waves and exploding wire structures, overcoming optical diagnostic limitations.

Conclusions:

• Synchrotron radiation is a feasible and effective technique for pulsed power driven high energy density physics.
• X-ray radiography provides crucial insights into shock wave dynamics and material behavior under extreme conditions.
• This method enhances the study of high-pressure materials and equation of state physics.