Numerical studies of compressibility effects in rotating imploding liquid liners

The final (minimum radius) state variables of a cylindrically imploded rotating liquid liner are computed as functions of p/sub f/, the maximum compression achieved, and u/sub infinity/, the velocity the liner would attain if allowed to expand without restraint. For each choice of p/sub f/ and u/sub infinity/, the rotational speed is chosen to just stabilize the Rayleigh-Taylor modes on the inside surface. The acceleration of the inner surface is largest prior to turnaround, so that the rotational speed required for stabilization is close to that found for an equivalent incompressible liner. Near turnaround the inner portion of the liner becomes significantly compressed, making the efficiency with which the payload plasma is heated considerably less than that for an incompressible liner. The liner compression produced at turnaround alters the implosion dynamics and creates a pressure pulse propagating outward analogous to a ''water hammer.'' An important favorable effect of compression is to extend the dwell period, during which thermonuclear reaction rates are maximal. The dependence of compression efficiency and of Q, defined as the ratio of thermonuclear yield to total system energy, on p/sub f/ and u/sub infinity/ are displayed for the parameter range of experimental interest. These results are then used to scale the system size in terms of allowable mechanical stress to indicate optimal peak operating pressures. The sidewall and endwall pressure loads are calculated for the same parameter range