Use of Z pinch radiation sources for high pressure shock wave studies

The authors are developing a new shock wave diagnostic using Z pinch sources for high-pressure equation of state (EOS) measurements. Specifically, they are employing VISAR interferometry to measure the particle velocity of shocked materials and fiber optic probes to measure the shock speed. Combination of these measurements will allow absolute EOS data with Z accelerators. This report is a progress report on the development of this new approach to EOS measurements; however, preliminary data obtained with the diagnostics are encouraging. With further development of Z pinch sources, it is envisioned that a variety of EOS and constitutive property measurements can be made. Time-resolved wave profile measurements will then provide a variety of EOS and material property data, such as isentropic EOS, initial compressive strength and shock-induced compressive strength, dynamic tensile strength, kinetics of phase transitions, and surface stability studies.