90 kJ of x-ray energy above 4.5 keV for weapons effects tests obtained on Z
A world record of 90 kJ in radiated K-shell x rays above 4.5 keV was obtained on Shot 67 on the 20-MA,
50-TWe Z pulsed power accelerator (formerly known as PBFA Z) at Sandia National Laboratories. The z-pinch
radiation source consisted of 80 titanium wires, each 25 microns in diameter, configured in an annular
cylindrical array 2 cm in length and 4 cm in diameter. Although the titanium wire diameter was thicker than what
is believed to be optimal, the radiated energy in K-shell x rays is a factor of nine higher than the previous
record of 10 kJ on the 10-MA, 20-TWe Saturn accelerator. The shot was done in preparation for a series of
weapons effects tests for the Defense Special Weapons Agency. These tests, scheduled for late June and for
late August, are aimed at eventual revalidation of components in the stockpile. The Department of Energy, in
collaboration with Ralph Schneider of DSWA and some DSWA contractors, is responsible for developing the
plasma radiation sources used for such tests.
Other Reports on High Energy Density and Inertial Confinement Fusion
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