High-density, high-field Field-Reversed Configuration formation scaling*

The formation of dense, long-lived Field-Reversed Configuration (FRC) plasmoids suitable for use in Magnetized Target Fusion (MTF) or kinetic shock physics experiments relies critically on efficient flux-trapping and high values of initial post-formation poloidal flux. New high-voltage, low-inductance pulsed power drivers are under development at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) that will enable formation at several times the density and poloidal flux levels of the former Magnetized Shock eXperiment (MSX) machine. Initial FRC formation results using the new hardware will be presented and performance limits of current techniques discussed.

Approved for public release, LA-UR-21-26734