High resolution spectroscopic diagnostic techniques for investigation of plasmas in electrical discharges

The authors describe the investigation of pulsed power systems using recently developed spectroscopic techniques. These methods allow for nonperturbing measurements with relatively high spectral, temporal and spatial resolutions. Spatial resolution along the line of sight is obtained by locally doping the plasma with various species whose emission is then utilized. A few methods developed for doping solid and gaseous materials are described. The results of the magnetic field evolution in a magnetically insulated ion-diode, plasma opening switches and a z-pinch are presented, together with the implications on the operation of these systems