Observations of vacuum spark dynamics from its X-ray emission

The behaviour of a medium energy pulse power driven vacuum spark is shown to depend on the different electrode materials and form of the anode in otherwise similar conditions of operation. The dynamical evolution of the discharge is followed from its soft X-ray emission. The electrode materials compared are titanium and aluminium and with a form of anode that is either conical or tubular. The use of a tubular anode favors a more uniform sheath and a better formation of dense Z-pinch and ensuing hot spots. The Aluminium hotspots are noticeably hotter than the Titanium discharge.