On the mechanism of ionization of atoms at compression of a substance by front of the converging shock wave

Abstract

Purpose. To study changes in the microstructure of metals after exposure to high-energy plasma jets formed by the cumulation of gas-dynamic flows in a conical target. To estimate the expected state of matter in a strong shock wave compression, taking into account the change in volumetric energy density at the moment of transformation of a solid body plasma into nuclear matter. Methodology. The technique of laser initiation of a profiled front of detonation waves in explosive charges and the corresponding profile of shock waves in materials, methods and techniques for measuring the dynamic parameters of shock-compressed substances are used. Findings. An experimental study on the physicochemical state of a substance that has been processed with extremely high pressures and temperatures during compression by converging shock waves in conical targets has been carried out. Scientific results of physical and mathematical modelling of converging shock waves are analysed. Originality. For the first time, the formation of symmetric plasma jets during gas compression in conical targets has been experimentally observed. For the first time, metallo-physical studies on the microstructure of cast iron and steel have been carried out. These studies were made after the action of high-energy dense plasma jets with a temperature of (2.52.8) × 106K and a pressure 1.12 × 1012 arising from the collision of the jet with a barrier. Iron-55 and copper-64 isotopes were found in the cast iron microstructure near the surface formed by the action of the plasma jet. The main components of the plasma jet were gaseous oxygen, nitrogen, argon, and atomic iron, copper and gold. The fact of formation of isotopes is the result of nuclear reactions. One of the main conditions for the implementation of such reactions is a dense high-temperature plasma. It is assumed that under the action of a strong shock wave in a conical target, in addition to the synthesis reaction, other nuclear reactions with heavy elements can be realized. The ideas about the expected state of matter in a compression shock wave are presented, taking into account the change in the volumetric energy density at the moment of transformation of a solid body plasma into nuclear matter. Practical value. The proposed technique for conducting experimental studies on a shock-compressed substance under the action of extreme temperatures and pressures in conical targets using laser initiation of chemical explosives is of practical importance. The idea of the expected state of matter in the shock wave is also important.