Plasma Jet Modeling for MIF

Los Alamos National Lab is currently developing an experiment to investigate the use of plasma jets to implode magnetized targets in what is called magneto-inertial fusion (MIF). In a typical MIF scheme, a solid liner is imploded around a magnetized target, an approach that requires placing the liner for each shot and then rebuilding the mechanical connections. This is known as the standoff problem. On the other hand, the use of plasma jets, which can be located far from the target and require no mechanical connections, could enable the feasibility of a reactor with a high repetition rate. However, a number of issues need to be resolved through experiment in combination with device modeling. This project will validate and enhance a plasma fluid code for the particular application of plasma jets for MIF. The code is based on shock-capturing finite volume and discontinuous Galerkin techniques for a variety of fluid plasma models. These models will be used to analyze the effect of instabilities during jet merging and magnetized target implosion. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee In addition to the application to fusion energy, the plasma modeling technology should find use in many high energy density plasma concepts such as the dense plasma focus for neutron generation, plasmoids for propulsion and power, MPD/PIT thrusters for spacecraft propulsion, plasma arcs, and MHD generators. In all cases, the modeling tool would reduce development time and therefore, save money, for the government and commercial organizations