Computational Simulation of Imploding Current Sheath Trajectory at the Radial Phase of Plasma Focus Performance

When the shock front (SF) hits the central electrode axis of plasma focus device, a reflected shock wave moves radially outwards. The current sheath (CS) results from ionization of filled gas between two electrodes continues to compress inwards until it hits the out-going reflected shock front. In this paper the Lagrangian equations are solved for a parabolic shock trajectory yielding a first and second approximation for the CS path. To determine the accuracy of the approximation, the same problem is solved for a straight shock.

Authors:

• R. Amrollahi
• M. Habibi

Keywords:

• Radial compression
• Shock wave trajectory
• Current sheath
• Slog model.

References:

[1] Mather J. W., Methods of Experimental Physics, P. 187(1971), 9B,
Academic Press, New York
[2] Leopoldo Soto, New trends and future perspectives on plasma focus
research, Plasma Physics and Control Fusion, 47,361-381(2005)
[3] Lee S., T. Y. Tou, S. P. Moo, et al, a simple facility for the teaching of
plasma dynamics and plasma nuclear fusion, Am. J. Phys. 56,1,62-
68(1988)
[4] Freeman, N. C., On the Theory of Hypersonic Flow Past Plane and
Axially Symmetric Bluff Bodies, J. Fluid Mech. A, 366-386 (1956).
[5] Freeman, N. C., On the Theory of Hypersonic Flow Past Plane and
Axially Symmetric Bluff Bodies, J. Fluid Mech. A, 366-386 (1956).