The Production of Solid Hydrogen and Deuterium Fibres for Dense Z‐Pinch Experiments

The physics of fibre making and existing devices are reviewed and a new design suggested. The yield stress of the extruded material, the extrusion pressure and the die shape are identified as important factors for successful extrusion.We propose that the fibre be extruded through a laser drilled aperture held at a temperature T1 at which the H2 or D2 is solid. The yield stress of the solid can be varied by changing T1 The aperture is connected by a capillary along which there is a temperature gradient. At the top of the capillary is a reservoir of liquid H2 or D2 held at a temperature T2. By varying T2 and hence the saturated vapour pressure above the liquid, the extrusion pressure can be accurately controlled. Initial results are reported.