Wire number breakthrough for high-power annular z pinches and some characteristics at high wire number

Abstract

Characteristics of annular wire array z pinches as a function of wire number and at high wire number are reviewed. The data, taken primarily using aluminum wires on Saturn, are comprehensive. The experiments have provided important insights into the features of wire-array dynamics critical for high X-ray power generation, and have initiated a renaissance in z pinches when high numbers of wires are used. In this regime, for example, radiation environments characteristic of those encountered during the early pulses required for indirect-drive ICF ignition on the NIF have been produced in hohlraums driven by X rays from a z pinch, and are commented on here.