Investigation of flow-dominated plasma interactions*

Pulsed acceleration of a plasma using a series of precisely-timed magnetic coils can enable attainment of velocities at which the kinetic energy exceeds the thermal and magnetic energy content of the flow. Interactions of these flow-dominated plasma with other plasmas, neutral gases, magnetic fields, and/or solids, can convert kinetic energy to other forms, such as thermal or non-thermal/high-energy populations, enhanced magnetic fields, and radiation. The details of the stagnation process and final energy partition can vary greatly depending on the Magnetosonic Mach number, Knudesn number, Hall parameter, and plasma beta. Through experiment, theory, and simulation, we are developing an understanding of the physics of flow-dominated plasma interactions, which has wide-ranging significance in basic plasma science and astrophysics, as well as applications such as magneto-inertial fusion and radiation science. Ongoing work includes developing new pulsed power systems, novel high-speed optical diagnostics, and exploration of new numerical techniques to specifically model the unique physics of translating/stagnating flow-dominated plasma.