Options for laser compression of matter to study dense-plasma phases at low entropy, including metallization of hydrogen

The potential of high-power lasers for detailed studies of strongly coupled plasmas at low entropy is discussed, emphasizing multiple-shock techniques. Some outstanding features like metallization in solids and related ionization phase transitions in the fluid phase emdash predicted theoretically, but not yet observed experimentally emdash are reviewed. Planar multiple shock compression of solid hydrogen is described, using reverberating shocks between massive liners and, alternatively, a stepped pressure pulse acting from one side. In the latter case, shock splitting and a rarefaction shock show up at the metallic phase transition. copyright 1996 American Institute of Physics