Energy Transformations in Column of Plasma-Focus Discharges With Megaampere Currents

Energy transformations are estimated from experimental results obtained on the PF-1000 plasma focus facility operated with a deuterium gas filling and maximum current of 2 MA, which enabled the neutron yield of >; 10¹¹ to be obtained. Use was made of the laser interferometry images and the recorded signals of hard X-rays (HXRs) and neutrons, as well as voltage, current, and current-derivative waveforms. The calculations of the inductance, derivative of inductance, and resistance of the current sheath enabled the evaluation of energy delivered to the plasma. It was estimated that, during the intensive pulses of the HXRs and neutrons, energy of 3-11 kJ is delivered to the plasma column probably through an anomalous resistance at the time closely before and during pulses of HXR and neutron production. A predominant portion of this energy is effectively used for the acceleration of fast deuterons capable of producing fusion neutrons.