Snowplow-like behavior in the implosion phase of wire array Z pinches.

The effect of discrete wires on the implosion dynamics of wire array Z-pinch experiments at ∼1 MA current level is discussed. The data show that the formation of a core–corona structure leads to gradual radial redistribution of mass by precursor plasma flow from the stationary wire cores during the first ∼80% of the implosion time. This phase ends with the formation of gaps in the wire cores, which occurs due to the nonuniformity of ablation rate along the wires. The final phase of the implosion starting at this time occurs as a rapid snowplow-like implosion of the plasma, previously injected into the interior of the array. The density distribution of the precursor plasma being peaked on the array axis could be a key factor providing stability of the wire array implosions operating in the regime of discrete wires. The implications of this implosion scenario to the operation of nested wire arrays and foam targets on the array axis are also discussed. © 2002 American Institute of Physics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]