K-shell Z-pinch X-ray Sources - Atomic Physics meets Plasma Physics

Summary form only given. The 20-MA Z accelerator at Sandia National Laboratories has enabled high velocity (>50 cm/mus) implosions with masses greater than 500 mug/cm. Such implosions produce high temperature (>2 keV), high-density plasmas that are copious emitters of L- and K-shell X-rays these exceed the threshold of 100 kJ/cm³ to qualify as high energy density plasmas by an order of magnitude. These conditions have allowed the study of intense K-shell emissions in the 5 to 8 keV range - going beyond the historical 1-3 keV X-rays available from the sub-10 MA generators. In this presentation, we will discuss the basic physics of K-shell emitting plasmas, including the roles of atomic physics, opacity, radiation transport, and temperature gradients in generating K-shell X-ray emissions. We will also review how the spectroscopic measurements are enabling a greater understanding of plasma processes, such as, the role of turbulence, in low current through high current generators. The results of collaborations with Naval Research Laboratory, Imperial College, University of Nevada Reno, L3 Pulsed Sciences, the Weizmann Institute and others will be included