80 kV, 8.9 kJ plasma focus experiments

High-voltage, low-energy, Mather-geometry plasma focus experiments were performed to study large sheath formation input power, fast rundown, and current optimization and stabilization during collapse and pinch. For the parameters of these experiments, large bank impedance and short implosion time lead to small pinch current depression. Double-peaked x-ray emission data correlates with I-dot compression spikes; Cu Kα radiation is believed to dominate. I-dot data indicate that on-axis sheath bouncing occurs. Center electrode damage, reduced compression dynamics, and sheath bouncing suggest the use of larger electrode radius for these operating parameters. B-dot probe data indicate a rundown current sheath full-width-half-maximum thickness of 7.4 mm.