2D Rad-MHD Model Assessment of Designs for Multiple-Shell Gas Nozzles for Z*

AASC is designing multiple-shell gas puff loads for Z. Here we assess the influence of the loads initial gas distribution on its K-shell yield performance. Emphasis is placed on designing an optimal central jet initial gas distribution, since it is believed to have a controlling effect on pinch stability, pinch conditions, and radiation physics [1]. We are looking at distributions that optimize total Ar K-shell emission and high energy ($>$10 KeV) continuum radiation. This investigation is performed with the Mach2 MHD code with non-LTE kinetics and ray trace based radiation transport. \\[4pt] [1] H. Sze, \textit{et al}., PRL, \textbf{95}, 105001 (2005).