Diagnosis of x-ray heated Mg/Fe opacity research plasmas

• DOI: 10.1063/1.3020710
• Publication Date: 2008-11-20T23:18:16Z
• Authors: J. E. Bailey; G. A. Rochau; R. C. Mancini; C. A. Iglesias; J. J. MacFarlane; I. E. Golovkin; J. C. Pain; F. Gilleron; C. Blancard; Ph. Cosse; G. Faussurier; G. A. Chandler; T. J. Nash; D. S. Nielsen; P. W. Lake
• Keywords: Opacity

Understanding stellar interiors, inertial confinement fusion, and Z pinches depends on opacity models for mid-Z plasmas in the 100-300 eV temperature range. These are complex experimental validation is crucial. In this paper we describe diagnosis of first experiments to measure iron plasma at a high enough produce charge states electron configurations that exist solar interior. The dynamic Hohlraum x-ray source Sandia National Laboratories' facility was used both heat backlight Mg/Fe CH tamped foils. backlighter equivalent brightness estimated be T(r) approximately 314 eV+/-8% using time-resolved power imaging diagnostics. This significant because it overwhelms sample self-emission. transmission 7-15.5 A range measured two convex potassium acid phthalate crystal spectrometers view through sample. average spectral resolution over lambda/deltalambda 700 by comparing theoretical calculations with measurements 7.126, 8.340, 12.254 A. density determined n(e)=6.9+/-1.7 x 10(21) cm(-3) Stark-broadened Mg Hebeta, Hegamma, Hedelta lines. inferred from H-like He-like line ratios T(e)=156+/-6 eV. Comparisons three different synthesis all have normalized chi(2) close unity, indicating quantitative consistency conditions. supports reliability results implies suitable testing models.