Abstract:
We present numerical models and computational experiments with the use of a three-dimensional
RMGD models describing a Z-pinch implosion. A Z-pinch is formed by an imploding array of
thin tungsten wires. In our calculations we take into account a discrete structure of the array and a
time-extended plasma formation during evaporation of a wire material under the action of an
electric pulse. By means of numerical simulation of a wire-array Z-pinch dynamics we obtained
the Z-pinch density, velosity, electron and ion temperatures, ionization degree, and the power
output integrated over the pinch volume. We also calculated the characteristics of the Z-pinch X-ray
spectrum depending on a photon energy at different moments with respect to the start of the
discharge current. Considering the radiation in the pinch radial direction we demonstrate the effect
of trailing masses distributed at the pinch periphery on a radiation intensity of a central part
or Z-pinch “kernel”. This can be explained by absorption of radiation in the peripheral plasma
layers. We have done the verification of the assumptions concerning the used RMGD model of
Z-pinch implosion by means of comparisons with such experimental implosion indicators as the
time profile of the radiation power integral over the pinch volume and the spectral distribution of
the photon energy. It is established that the calculated data are in good qualitative agreement with
the experimental results.
Pursuing the aim to study thoroughly the pinch radiation properties we have developed a detailed
model of the pinch kernel, resulting in the electric current implosion of multiwire tungsten array.
The model allows the calculation of the soft X-ray radiation intensity with resolution of temporal,
spatial, angular and spectral radiation characteristics. The results of calculations are represented
for the specific conditions pertinent to experiments with the cylindrical multi-wire arrays carried
out at the Angara -5-1 facility. The calculations are justified by the fact that the considered experimental
series provided sufficiently complete information on the temporal profiles of the absolute
radiation intensity in the soft X-ray band. We obtained the following numerical results that
can be directly compared with the experiment: integrated over space and time radiation spectra as
functions of a polar angle at which they are registered; time-integrated image of the pinch, which
can be prepared by pinhole cameras for different filters; time-dependence of the pinch spectrum.