Oscillation Of The Current Sheet Velocity In Plasma Focus Discharges

Abstract

A MJ-Class Dense Plasma Focus (DPF) facility, is being designed to develop the technology needed for lasma f c c xtype magnetoplasmadynamic (MPD) thrusters.' The facility will be capable of studying various commercial appli the plasma focus also, such as soft x-ray lithography. ity will be located at the University of Illinois, Champaigd Urbana campus. The ultimate objective is to demonstrate the feasibility and attractiveness of the plasma focus MPD c o c c q t for very high specific-impulse space propulsion. Studies include scaling experiments up to and including the 1-MJ level an3 experiments using a gas-injected plasma focus, such as required in the hard vacuum cnvironment of space.The plasma focus thruster differs from the conventional MPD in that it is capable of generating additional thrust from fusion energy released during the pinch phase of the arc rL;idown. The proposed 1-MJ facility would enable studies of thew concepts at a meaningful energy level. If the results are encoc;aging, as expected, a next step would be to construct a Po:+ type thruster for furthzr studies, inc!uding space qualificaticns In addition to thmster scdies, the MJ-class offers considerable flexibility for the study of a variety o tific applications rcquiring an intense, plsed, radiation sourc~. Examples of such uses range from studies of radiation hardering of electronics to trammutation of radioactive wastes. Conscquently, upon completion, it is planned to invite outside users to access the MJ-facility in the time that remains after mainline research. A key ohjective is to establish the DPF facility as a National User's Facility. To accomplish this, it is planned ;G establish an advisory committee for use of the facility next ycar and host a workshop for potential users.