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Large aperture harmonic conversion experiments at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory
G J Linford1, B C Johnson, J S Hildum
1University of California, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, PO Box 808, Livermore, California 94550, USA.
Applied Optics
|April 17, 2010
Summary
High-energy harmonic conversion experiments achieved up to 346 Joules at 83% efficiency. These advancements in laser technology enhance inertial confinement fusion target performance.
Area of Science:
- Laser Physics
- Plasma Physics
- Fusion Energy
Background:
- High-power lasers are crucial for inertial confinement fusion (ICF) research.
- Efficient harmonic conversion is essential for optimizing ICF target performance.
- Previous harmonic conversion methods faced limitations in energy and efficiency.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe large aperture harmonic conversion experiments on the Argus laser.
- To achieve high energies at 2 omega (532 nm), 3 omega (355 nm), and 4 omega (266 nm).
- To evaluate the impact of harmonic conversion on ICF target performance.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the Argus laser at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory for harmonic conversion experiments.
- Performed large aperture harmonic conversion to 2, 3, and 4 omega laser wavelengths.
- Measured harmonically converted energies and external conversion efficiencies.
Main Results:
- Generated up to 346 Joules of harmonically converted energy.
- Achieved external conversion efficiencies as high as 83%.
- Observed enhanced performance in 2 omega and 3 omega ICF target experiments.
Conclusions:
- Demonstrated high-efficiency, high-energy harmonic conversion is achievable.
- These results indicate significant potential for improving ICF target coupling.
- The developed techniques offer a pathway to more efficient laser-driven fusion energy research.
