Application and validation of direct numerical simulation for ICF implosion stability analysis
- and others
We have recently been applying a powerful computational tool, direct numerical simulation (DNS), to evaluate the stability of imploding inertial confinement fusion (ICF) capsules designed for the National Ignition Facility. In DNS, we explicitly calculate the evolution of realistic surface perturbations far into their nonlinear regimes, using a 2D Lagrangian radiation-hydrodynamics code. Because the mesh may become greatly distorted during the calculation, requiring frequent application of an automatic rezoner, and because we use a 2D code to represent 3D perturbations whose nonlinear behavior is shape- dependent, we have been seeking to assess the accuracy of DNS in as many regimes as possible. For this purpose, we have conducted experimental campaigns to observe the instability of radiatively driven imploding cylinders, deuterated-shell spherical capsules, and radiatively accelerated flat foils perturbed on the unheated surface (``feedout`` experiments). We have compared DNS calculations to data from these experiments, and to theoretical predictions for incompressible Rayleigh-Taylor instability, with satisfactory agreement. Thus we are gradually accumulating confidence in the validity of DNS as applied to ICF.
- Research Organization:
- Sandia National Lab. (SNL-NM), Albuquerque, NM (United States)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE, Washington, DC (United States)
- DOE Contract Number:
- W-7405-ENG-36
- OSTI ID:
- 254083
- Report Number(s):
- LA-UR-96-1865; CONF-9606229-3; ON: DE96011610; TRN: 96:016431
- Resource Relation:
- Conference: 24. European conference on laser interaction with matter, Madrid (Spain), 3-7 Jun 1996; Other Information: PBD: [1996]
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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