Megagauss magnetic fields

Abstract

Methods of generating magnetic fields in excess of one megagauss are described and discussed. Particular attention is given to explosively driven flux-compression experiments, which at present can generate the highest fields. The discussion of the experimental techniques is divided into three parts: high explosives, initial field and the compression process. Flux-compression theory deals with the dynamics of the metallic `liner' which compresses the flux, and with the magnetic field diffusion into the liner, which results in heating the liner material above the boiling point. Theoretical limits on the highest attainable fields are discussed.