Simulation of the long time scale POS

Summary form only given. The dynamics of long-time-scale plasma opening switches (POSs) has been characterized. The POS can store electromagnetic energy inductively, and then release it for rapid delivery to an implosion or radiation source. The focus is on switches conducting up to 1 MA over 400 to 700 ns - for delivery over 100 ns to a 5 Ohm load. Typically, a coaxial POS with a 4 to 6 cm inner cathode and a 10 to 18 cm outer anode filled with 4 to 11 cm of 5 /spl times/ 10/sup 14/ electrons/cm/sup -3/ plasma has been modeled. Modeling has been performed with the ANTHEM 2D implicit fluid particle in cell (PIC) simulation code. The interplay of Hall-EMHD and snowplow effects on conduction and opening has been considered.