Exploring the parameter space of MagLIF implosions using similarity scaling. I. Theoretical framework

Magneto-inertial fusion concepts, such as the magnetized liner inertial (MagLIF) platform [M. R. Gomez et al., Phys. Rev. Lett. 113, 155003 (2014)], constitute an alternative path for achieving ignition and significant yields in laboratory. The space of experimental input parameters defining a MagLIF load is highly multi-dimensional, implosion itself complex event involving many physical processes. In first paper this series, we develop simplified analytical model that identifies main processes at play during implosion. Using non-dimensional analysis, determine most important dimensionless characterizing implosions provide estimates using typical fielded or experimentally observed quantities MagLIF. We then show loads can be “incompletely” similarity scaled, meaning varied (but not all) are conserved. Based on similarity-scaling arguments, explore parameter estimate performance scaled loads. follow-up papers test theory against simulations two different scaling “vectors,” which include current rise-time scaling.