X-Ray Emission from a 1 kJ Plasma Focus

Abstract

Several devices capable of producing dense, high temperature plasma are presently investigated as possible sources in the soft x-ray range [3.1–6]. Among these are the laser-induced plasma, the gas puff systems, the sliding spark, and the plasma focus. A plasma focus device produces a small volume of high-temperature dense plasma, that is formed by pinch compression on the focus axis in front of the center electrode (Fig.3.1). The plasma focus is of roughly cylindrical shape frequently fluctuating in its local position and geometrical shape. With respect to the generation of soft x-rays these fluctuations are disadvantageous as the radiation source suffers from corresponding fluctuations in position, size and brightness. Improvement of the reproducibility of plasma position and geometry has been achieved in a modified version of the plasma focus which differs from standard devices by an external control of the ignition phase [3.8]. The modifications resulted in an enhanced brightness and improved reproducibility of the x radiation.