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Experiments to measure the dynamic response of plutonium in support of high-level Campaign 2 milestones for both Sandia and Los Alamos National Laboratory were conducted using an isentropic compression technique on the Z machine. The collaborative experiments were the result of several years of work to design and qualify a robust containment system, ensure all ES&H requirements were addressed, and gain NNSA approval. The experiments provided data that have long been needed by the weapons community. The effort will continue with the commissioning of the refurbished Z machine. (1600, 5400, 4200, 10200, 10300, KTech, NSTech) NW
Perturbations on millimeter-scale inertial confinement fusion capsules arising from the presence of tiny (10-micron diameter) fill tubes were studied. Using X-rays provided by the Z machine, capsules with multiple glass tubes attached were imploded and the configuration was imaged using a one nanosecond-duration monochromatic X-ray source. The resulting high-quality data enabled detailed comparisons with simulations for the first time. The agreement between experiment and simulation increases our confidence that fill tubes will not hinder ignition attempts on the National Ignition Facility. (1600) NW
Pulsed Arrested Spark Discharge (PASD), a unique patented wiring diagnostic, has been licensed to Astronics Advanced Electronics Systems. PASD has been demonstrated to detect and accurately locate wiring insulation defects in the most challenging wiring systems. Existing wiring system diagnostics are incapable of locating insulation damage such as cracking, chafing, breaches, and other defects that can develop as a result of aging or improper installation. PASD could revolutionize the inspection and maintenance of new and aging wiring systems, a significant issue in the aging commercial aircraft fleet. (1600) ER&N