Two-dimensional modeling of ideal merging plasma jets

Idealized merging argon plasma jets are simulated in 2D using both gas dynamic and MHD models. Results indicate that peak pressures of several hundred kilobar can be achieved for high Mach number jets. Including a simple optically thin bremsstrahlung radiation model and plasma targets shows that extremely high densities and magnetic fields can be achieved during jet merging on the order of ~1,000 times the initial density/field. Further investigations should include detailed ionization processes and more accurate radiation modeling to properly capture the radiation transport and subsequent target compression.