Apparatus for initiating deuterium--tritium fusion

Patent · Wed Nov 21 04:00:00 EST 1973

OSTI ID:4334000

Pedrick, A P

Apparatus is described for initiation of a nuclear fusion reaction between D and T, in a controlled manner. It comprises a cylindrical shell made of steel, or some other suitable material, having a high gloss on its bore, into which may be injected streams of radiant energy from a laser device. The laser beams are directed at, or very close to, the main axis of the shell. Three or more gun barrels are directed radially at the center of the shell with explosive charges at their outer ends, the simultaneous ignition of which project high speed bullets having recessed noses containing D and T inserts. The bullets are governed to pass through the shell at approximately the same speed by speed sensing contact rings linked. in a control unit, to magnetic coil braking fields. The control unit also operates to delay simultaneous firing of the laser device until the bullets are close to simultaneous impact at the center of the shell, so as to avoid as far as possible wastage of energy from the laser beams by reflection at the surface of the shell bore. The apparatus is thus arranged so as, when three or more bullets are in simultaneous impact at the center of the shell, to enclose a small approximately spherical space containing a high intensity of radiant energy, in a shell of D and T, which will take part in a nuclear fusion reaction at the high temperature attained within the small enclosed space. (UK)

• Research Organization: Originating Research Org. not identified
• NSA Number: NSA-29-025818
• OSTI ID: 4334000
• Report Number(s): GB 1337936
• Country of Publication: United Kingdom
• Language: English

Related Subjects

*THERMONUCLEAR DEVICES-- SPECIFICATIONS
DEUTERIUM
LASERS
N70800* --Physics--Controlled Thermonuclear Research-- Thermonuclear Engineering & Equipment
SHELLS
THERMONUCLEAR REACTIONS
TRITIUM