Neutron Generation by Laser-Driven Spherically Convergent Plasma Fusion

Area of Science:

• Plasma Physics
• Nuclear Fusion
• Laser-Induced Fusion

Background:

• Thermonuclear fusion research aims for stable and efficient neutron production.
• Laser-driven inertial confinement fusion is a promising approach.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate a new laser-driven spherically convergent plasma fusion (SCPF) scheme.
• To demonstrate stable and efficient thermonuclear neutron production.

Main Methods:

• Uniformly irradiating a fuel layer inside a spherical hohlraum with nanosecond laser pulses (10^14-10^15 W/cm^2).
• Theoretical prediction of neutron yield using a scaling law: Y_n ∝ (E_L / R_h^1.2 τ^0.2)^2.5.
• Experimental validation on the ShengGuangIII-prototype facility.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated the principle of the SCPF scheme.
• Achieved stable and efficient thermonuclear neutron production.
• Established a theoretical scaling law for neutron yield.

Conclusions:

• The SCPF scheme is a viable method for efficient thermonuclear neutron generation.
• Experimental results support the theoretical predictions.
• The findings have significant implications for fusion energy research.