In the realm of energy research, a team of scientists from Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), including B. Z. Djordjević, D. J. Strozzi, G. B. Zimmerman, S. A. MacLaren, C. R. Weber, D. D. -M. Ho, L. S. Leal, C. A. Walsh, and J. D. Moody, have been delving into the potential of magnetic fields to enhance inertial confinement fusion (ICF) processes. Their work, published in the journal Physical Review Letters, builds upon recent breakthroughs in ICF, particularly the achievement of ignition conditions and laser energy breakeven at the National Ignition Facility (NIF).
The researchers used advanced simulations to investigate how imposed magnetic fields could influence the fusion output of high-performing ICF shots. They focused on the record BigFoot shot N180128, and HYBRID-E shots N210808 and N221204, applying axial fields of up to 100 Tesla (T) in their models. The simulations revealed that magnetic fields can increase the hotspot temperature due to magnetic insulation. This effect constrains electron heat flow and alters alpha particle trajectories, enhancing energy deposition and ultimately improving fusion performance.
The study found that magnetization with field strengths ranging from 5 to 75 T can boost the burn-averaged ion temperature by 50% and the neutron yield by 2 to 12 times. Notably, a relatively modest magnetic field of 5-10 T applied to the N221204 shot resulted in at least a 50% increase in yield. Even greater improvements were observed with higher field strengths, such as an 8-fold increase in yield for the N210808 shot with a 65 T field, combined with symmetrization.
The researchers also explored the potential benefits of magnetic fields for future NIF designs, including an Enhanced Yield Capability design and a high-\r{ho}R, low implosion velocity “Pushered Single Shell” design. While these simulations did not involve further design optimization to maximize the advantages of applied magnetic fields, the results suggest that tailored designs could yield even greater improvements.
For the energy industry, these findings could pave the way for more efficient and productive fusion reactions. By applying magnetic fields to ICF processes, energy providers may be able to achieve higher temperatures and yields, potentially making fusion energy more viable and accessible. However, further research and development will be necessary to translate these simulation results into practical applications for the energy sector.
Source: Physical Review Letters
This article is based on research available at arXiv.