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Improving ICF implosion performance with alternative capsule supports

Journal Article · · Physics of Plasmas
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1063/1.4977536· OSTI ID:1348030

The thin membrane that holds the capsule in-place in the hohlraum is recognized as one of the most significant contributors to reduced performance in indirect drive inertial confinement fusion (ICF) experiments on the National Ignition Facility. This membrane, known as the “tent,” seeds a perturbation that is amplified by Rayleigh-Taylor and can rupture the capsule. A less damaging capsule support mechanism is under development. Possible alternatives include the micron-scale rods spanning the hohlraum width and supporting either the capsule or stiffening the fill-tube, a larger fill-tube to both fill and support the capsule, or a low-density foam layer that protects the capsule from the tent impact. Experiments are testing these support features to measure their imprint on the capsule. These experiments are revealing unexpected aspects about perturbation development in indirect drive ICF, such as the importance of shadows coming from bright spots in the hohlraum. Two dimensional and 3D models are used to explain these features and assess the impact on implosion performance. Experiments and modeling suggest that the fill-tube supported by a perpendicular rod can mount the capsule without any additional perturbation beyond that of the fill tube.

Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE
Grant/Contract Number:
AC52-07NA27344; NA0001808
OSTI ID:
1348030
Alternate ID(s):
OSTI ID: 1349371
Journal Information:
Physics of Plasmas, Journal Name: Physics of Plasmas Journal Issue: 5 Vol. 24; ISSN 1070-664X
Publisher:
American Institute of PhysicsCopyright Statement
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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