Plasma and Megagauss Fields

Megagauss magnetic fields interact with plasma both in the generation of high energy-density states of matter and in the use of magnetized plasma in multi-megampere pulsed power devices. The presentation provides a brief theoretical framework, in the limits of high magnetic Reynolds number and high magnetic pressure compared to plasma pressure, for subsequent discussions of several applications. These applications include imploding plasma liners, the Plasma Flow Switch and Radiator, and controlled thermonuclear fusion. We consider issues of energy transport, surface interactions, stability, and technology choices.

Dr. Peter J. Turchi
Los Alamos National Laboratory
IEEE Fellow