Effect of Anode Shape and Hollow on Neutron Yield in a 4.4 KJ Dense Plasma Focus Device

The Dense Plasma Focus (DPF) is a Z-pinch configuration where coaxial electrodes channel a dynamic plasma sheath along the anode, resulting in a hot dense pinch near the anode tip. DPF is capable of producing X-rays, energetic ions, and high intensity, fast neutron pulses. Ongoing experiments using a 4.4 kJ Mather-type DPF exploring the role of anode geometry will be presented, with a focus on several geometries highlighted in recent theoretical works 1 , 2 , including curved and flat anodes with and without a hollow center. The convergence of plasma on axis is heavily influenced by the relationship between the residual axial motion of the plasma sheath relative to the inward driving force, which is primarily affected by the anode geometry and operating fill pressure. Trends in neutron yield measured by a calibrated Be activation detector will be presented alongside laser probing diagnostics and high energy X-ray sensitive photodiode measurements.