The ZX Initiative - An Upgraded Z Facility for eXtended Performance, Capabilities, and Scientific Impact

Le résumé fourni par la source

Sandia's Pulsed Power Sciences Center has begun scoping activities for the ZX Initiative, aimed at significantly enhancing the Z facility's pulsed power performance, experimental capabilities, and scientific and national security impact. This effort would encompass advancements in Z pulsed power, diagnostics, experimental systems, and operations. The Z Machine plays a crucial role in the U.S. stockpile stewardship program by advancing high-energy density physics and supporting national security objectives. Recent advancements in pulsed power science have made it feasible to implement an “upgrade in place,” potentially doubling the facility's capabilities while utilizing existing infrastructure and investments. The upgraded system under consideration is designed to fit within the existing Z high bay and driver tank without necessitating major modifications. This proposal includes extending and upgrading the current Marx-based pulsed-power technology, improved switching and operating at higher voltages. These upgrades aim to double the delivered power to 160 TW and energy to 12 MJ, thereby increasing peak currents by approximately 30%. Innovations will enable more flexible current pulse options for both shorter and longer pules, with precise pulse shape control and repeatability. Taking full advantage of these improvements for the fusion mission would also require enhanced facility operations to support megajoule-class neutron yield environments. If successfully funded and executed, the ZX Initiative will: •Enable the potential achievement and measurement of fusion plasma self-heating. •Reduce target physics, operations, and pulsed power technical risks in scaling to high fusion yields (>200 MJ) in next-generation high-energy density (HED) facilities. •Provide enhanced material pressures for equation of state (EOS) measurements and theoretical validation of thermodynamic and transport properties. •Increase x-ray fluences for radiation effects studies.

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