Dense plasmas at the PUC (Pontificia Universidad Catolica de Chile)

This paper describes the major results obtained in the research program of the Pontifical Catholic University's Optics and Plasma Laboratory in the area of transient discharges in dense plasmas during the past decade. The most significant results in plasma focus, Z-pinch based on neutral gas, vacuum spark and X-pinch are presented. The work carried out to date has led to the design and construction of a new pulse power generator, LLAMPUDKEN which will aid in the continued development of the area. The most significant characteristics of this generator's design is presented, as well as their relevance to the program's future. The novel aspects of the design which make LLAMPUDKEN a unique instrument worldwide are emphasized. A schedule for future work is presented