ISSN:
1572-9591
Keywords:
Laser
;
fusion driver
;
laser fusion
;
inertial fusion
;
high power lasers
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Energy, Environment Protection, Nuclear Power Engineering
Notes:
Abstract Pulsed high power lasers can deliver sufficient energy on inertial fusion time scales (0.1–10 ns) to heat and compress DT fuel to fusion reaction conditions. Several laser systems have been examined for application to the fusion problem. Examples are Nd∶glass, CO2, KrF, and I2, etc. A great deal of developmental effort has been applied to the Nd∶glass laser and the CO2 gas laser systems. These systems now deliver 〉104 kJ and 〉20×1012 W to inertial fusion targets. The Nova Nd∶glass laser is being constructed to provide 〉200 kJ and 〉200×1012 W of 1 Μm radiation for fusion experimentation in the mid-1980s. For inertial fusion target gain, 〉100 times the laser input, it is expected that the laser must deliver ∼3–5 MJ of energy on the 10–20 ns time scale. This paper reviews the developments in laser technology and outlines approaches to construction of a 3–5 MJ driver.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF01052387
