We present an analytic theory of Richtmyer-Meshkov instabilities in an arbitrary number N of stratified fluids subjected to a shock. Following our earlier work on Rayleigh-Taylor instabilities, the theory assumes incompressible flow in which a shock is treated an impulsive acceleration, g = ..delta.. v delta(tau/sub s), ..delta..v being the jump velocity induced in the system by a shock at time tau/sub s/. We discuss the special cases N = 2 and N = 3, and illustrate both Rayleigh-Taylor and Richtmyer-Meshkov instabilities by examples patterned after inertial confinement fusion implosions.

The Mirror Advanced Reactor Study (MARS) is a conceptual design study for a commercial fusion power reactor. One of the major goals of MARS is to develop design guidance so that fusion reactors can meet reasonable expectations for environmental health and safety. One of the first steps in the assessment of health and safety requirements was to examine what the guidelines might be for health and safety in disposal of radioactive wastes from fusion reactors. Then, using these quidelines as criteria, the impact of materials selection upon generation of radioactive wastes through neutron activation of structural materials was investigated. A conclusion of this work is that fusion power systems may need substantial engineering effort in new materials development and selection to meet the probable publicly acceptable levels of radioactivity for waste disposal in the future.