The Richtmyer–Meshkov instability of thermal, isotope and species interfaces in a five-moment multi-fluid plasma

The Richtmyer–Meshkov instability (RMI) results from the impulsive acceleration of a density interface where either it or is perturbed. Density interfaces may arise due to change in gas species, isotope, temperature combination these. We computationally investigate effect type on plasma RMI, which relevant for range applications, including inertial confinement fusion. simulate evolution single-mode perturbed thermal, species and isotope an ideal ion–electron using multi-fluid (MFP) model. find that, MFP model, different types differs significantly, contrast single-fluid models they behave similarly if Atwood number matched. thermal produce most severe response shock acceleration, experiencing secondary instabilities enhanced primary mode growth. restrained comparison with former cases, resembling predicted by models. determining factor severity RMI ratio across initial electron fluid, unity interface. observe as decreases, so do magnitudes self-generated fields consequently growth amplification. Generally, becomes more similar level coupling between ion fluids increased, characterised reducing non-dimensional skin depth.