Techniques for spatial resolution of X-ray spectra from exploded-wire plasmas

Techniques are described for obtaining simultaneous spatial and spectral resolution of X-rays emitted by high-temperature plasmas formed when fine wires are exploded. Good spatial and moderate spectral resolutions are obtained with a pinhole camera containing multiple films. Small pinches emitting predominantly soft radiation and larger 'flare' regions emitting harder radiation were found with this technique. Intermediate spatial and good spectral resolution results from the use of crystal spectrographs in various geometries. Such combinations show that the pinches have high temperatures (up to 2 keV) while the flares are about one-tenth as hot. Examples of data taken from tungsten exploded-wire plasmas are given for each arrangement. The spatially resolving spectrographs described are also applicable to the study of other X-ray sources.