Optimal design of wire array loads for fast Z-pinch implosions

Summary form only given, as follows. In plasma radiation sources, Z-pinch loads axe imploded to convert the magnetic energy supplied by the pulsed power driver into plasma thermal energy at stagnation, and then, finally, into x-ray radiation. The Z-pinch implosion of annular wire-array plasma loads on high-current pulsed-power accelerators are used to generate high x-ray powers. Currently, the main subject of fast Z-pinch investigations is the optimization of the x-ray yield. There is, therefore, an obvious need to be able to optimize the design of wire array loads, to maximize the output power on both present and future generation Z-pinch drivers. In this paper, the electrical performance of a generator, such as Saturn or Z or a new device, and overall plasma load behavior are discussed in terms of a zero-dimensional shell model.