Abstract
Dense Plasma Focus (DPF) devices are capable of producing significant hard x-rays and neutron yields. Previous research with the Naval Research Laboratory's (NRL's) high-impedance HAWK DPF, which utilizes a unique initialization method known as Local Mass Injection (LMI), has provided unusually high neutron yields when compared to other pulsed power devices of similar current magnitudes (approximately 10x higher than expected). The low-impedance Sparky III device at the University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) is being used to investigate this phenomenon further, in collaboration with NRL. This presentation will showcase the results of the first joint UNR/NRL experiments with Sparky III, which demonstrated successful operation in both traditional static fill DPF operation as well as LMI DPF operation. The primary diagnostics for these pilot experiments included a Rogowski Coil, a High Voltage Probe, plastic scintillator photomultiplier (PMT) detectors for neutron measurements, and a visible light camera. Theoretical support includes MHD simulations which help to interpret physical effects underlying experimental observations and non-LTE kinetic modeling for plasma spectroscopy diagnostics. Plans for future neutron yield optimization and x-ray diagnostic implementation will be discussed.
*This material is based upon work supported by the U.S. Army Program Executive Office, Simulation, Training and Instrumentation (PEO STRI), Test Resource Management Center (TRMC) Test and Evaluation/Science & Technology (T&E/S&T) Program. These projects are funded by the T&E/S&T Program through the U.S. Army Program Executive Office for Simulation, Training and Instrumentation (PEO STRI) Instrumentation Management Office (IMO).Any opinions, findings and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of, nor constitute endorsement by, the Department of Defense or Army, including but not limited to the Test Resource Management Center (TRMC) Test and Evaluation/Science & Technology (T&E/S&T) Program and/or the Program Executive Office for Simulation, Training & Instrumentation (PEO STRI).
