Inertial confinement fusion with light ion beams

Area of Science:

• Plasma Physics
• Nuclear Fusion
• Accelerator Technology

Background:

• The Particle Beam Fusion Accelerator II (PBFA II) is a unique facility designed for laboratory-scale thermonuclear fuel ignition.
• The light-ion approach to inertial confinement fusion (ICF) presents a high-risk, high-reward pathway with potential for both military and commercial applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To detail the capabilities and potential of the PBFA II for achieving ignition and break-even in ICF experiments.
• To highlight recent advancements in beam production and focusing that overcome previous limitations in achieving high focal intensities.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing PBFA II to generate and focus high-current (5 MA) lithium ion beams at 30 MeV.
• Optimizing beam production and focusing techniques to control self-generated electric and magnetic fields.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated control over self-generated fields, previously thought to inhibit high focal intensities.
• Achieved conditions necessary for ignition, break-even, and high-gain ICF experiments.

Conclusions:

• The PBFA II facility shows significant promise for advancing ICF research.
• The cost-effectiveness and high efficiency of the light-ion approach make it a viable candidate for future commercial energy production.