Simulation of Direct-Drive Magneto-Inertial Fusion

In the magneto-inertial fusion approach based on laser-driven magnetic-ux compression, an imploding target traps and amplifies a pre-seeded magnetic ux. The extremely high magnetic field created by the implosion reduces thermal-conduction losses in the hot spot and enhances alpha energy deposition, leading to increasing hot-spot temperature at lower implosion velocities than required in conventional inertial confinement fusion approach. However, the maximum magnetic field intensity that can be achieved by the direct-driven laser compression is unclear, and the threshold magnetic field required to suppress the thermal transport and lower the ignition requirement is unknown. To help answer these uncertainties, this project will develop detailed numerical models of laser-driven magnetic-ux compression in two dimensions. The approach will build on an existing magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) numerical code to carry out simulations for laser-driven implosions of large convergence ratio. The simulations will be designed for relevance to the geometries of cylindrical and spherical targets. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee An MHD code with laser energy deposition capability would find applications in fusion science, astrophysics, and in research areas relevant to DOE, DOD, and the defense industry.