Physics of laser-plasma interaction for shock ignition of fusion reactions. (3rd November 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Tikhonchuk, V T; Colaïtis, A; Vallet, A; Llor Aisa, E; Duchateau, G; Nicolaï, Ph; Ribeyre, X
• Is Part Of: Plasma physics and controlled fusion. Volume 58:Number 1(2016:Jan.)
• Publication Date: 2015-11-03
• Subjects: inertial confinement fusion -- laser-plasma interaction -- electron transport; Plasma (Ionized gases) -- Periodicals; Controlled fusion -- Periodicals; 530.44
• DOI: 10.1088/0741-3335/58/1/014018
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0741-3335

Abstract

Abstract: The shock ignition scheme is an alternative approach, which aims to achieve ignition of fusion reactions in two subsequent steps: first, the target is compressed at a low implosion velocity and second, a strong converging shock is launched during the stagnation phase and ignites the hot spot. In this paper we describe the major elements of this scheme and recent achievements concerning the laser-plasma interaction, the crucial role of hot electrons in the shock generation, the shock amplification in the imploding shell and the ignition conditions.