System study for a possible Atlas radiation option

In this paper, we analyze design options for implementing a fuse and a plasma opening switch on the Atlas generator for applications involving radiation production from a Z pinch. Transmission line circuit models of Atlas have been developed that include physics-based electrical models for the opening switches and Z pinch. The kinetic energy of the Atlas imploding Z pinch is calculated for the various design options. The results suggest that the fuse option is inefficient. The plasma opening switch option shows promise, but has scaling issues. This work points out the importance of appropriate values for current limiting resistors when altering the Atlas circuit. These analyses are not complete, but are a starting point from which these design options can be pursued further.