Nuclear science research with dynamic high energy density plasmas at NIF

[摘要] Nuclear reaction measurements are performed at the National Ignition Facility in a high energy density plasma environment by adding target materials to the outside of the hohlraum thermo-mechanical package on an indirect-drive exploding pusher shot. Materials are activated with 14.1-MeV neutrons and the post-shot debris is collected via the Solid Radiochemistry diagnostic, which consists of metal discs fielded 50 cm from target chamber center. The discs are removed post-shot and analyzed via radiation counting and mass spectrometry. Results from a shot using Nd and Tm foils as targets are presented, which indicate enhanced collection of the debris in the line of sight of a given collector. The capsule performance was not diminished due to the extra material. This provides a platform for future measurements of nuclear reaction data through the use of experimental packages mounted external to the hohlraum.

[发布机构] Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, P.O. Box 808, Livermore; CA; 94551, United States^1;Department of Nuclear Engineering, University of California, Berkeley; CA; 94720, United States^2

[关键词] High energy density plasmas;Indirect-drive;Measurements of;National ignition facility;Science research;Target chamber center;Target materials;Thermo-mechanical