A thermonuclear system based on Z-pinch formed by current of an explosive magnetic generator (disk project)

It is known that a thermonuclear target can be ignited by an implosion accomplished with X-radiation generated by means of laser radiation conversion or by a Z-pinch formed by a high-power current pulse. For these purposes laser facility NIF has been constructed in the USA, “Megajoule” is being constructed in France, and there is a project of laser facility “UFL-2M” in Russia. The project of stationary facility X has been developed in SNL USA to produce a Z pinch capable of generating an x-ray pulse with parameters close to the ignition threshold. There is a chance that the already tested technologies, including disk explosive magnetic generators (DEMG), systems of current peaking based on electrically exploded foil opening switches, and high-voltage switching devices can be used to provide the quickest and cheapest way to resolve the problem of the ignition feasibility. To explore this possibility, the paper will sequentially analyze the target ignition conditions. The required parameters of Z pinch X-radiation and the size of the DEMG-based facility to obtain these parameters will be evaluated. Capabilities of the current sources based on the DEMG and of the devices shaping a current pulse will be presented and compared to those required for the target ignition.