X-ray Spectroscopy and Total Yield Measurements on a Microsecond X-Pinch

Emission spectra from a microsecond x-pinch were studied in the soft x-ray region which give information about the radiating hot spot plasma. The spectra were collected using a flat crystal spectrometer from aluminum and molybdenum in a 2×25 µm wire x-pinch configuration. We present results that show aluminum reaching the hydrogen-like state and molybdenum reaching the neon-like charge state, from which relevant plasma parameters are determined. We also present the results of a load optimization study for an x-pinch driven by a 350-kA microsecond generator. A scan of the configuration space across material, thickness, and number of wires was performed to determine which parameter combination creates the best total x-ray yield for use in radiography and backlighting. The configuration assessment was conducted using x-ray imaging, Si photodiodes, and diamond radiation detectors.