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Fusion energy: Progress, partnerships, and the path to deployment
Over the past decade, fusion energy has moved decisively from scientific aspiration toward a credible pathway to a new energy technology. Thanks to long-term federal support, we have significantly advanced our fundamental understanding of plasma physics—the behavior of the superheated gases at the heart of fusion devices. This knowledge will enable the creation and control of fusion fuel under conditions required for future power plants. Our progress is exemplified by breakthroughs at the National Ignition Facility and the Joint European Torus.
F. Gillot, A. Choux, L. Jeannot, G. Pascal, P. Baclet
Fusion Science and Technology | Volume 49 | Number 4 | May 2006 | Pages 626-634
Technical Paper | Target Fabrication | doi.org/10.13182/FST06-A1176
Articles are hosted by Taylor and Francis Online.
The characterization of the solid DT layer, in terms of thickness and roughness, in the LMJ geometry (hohlraum) is not trivial. The DT layer measurements will be done using a Maksutov-Cassegrain telescope, 39 cm away from the target. This telescope will be used to acquire shadowgraphy images and spectral-interferometry measurements. Shadowgraphy imaging probes the DT layer geometry at the equator of the target. Spectral-interferometry gives the DT layer thickness on one spot on the shell, in the polar regions of the target. By scanning around the poles, several points can be acquired to probe the roughness and the local shape of the DT layer at the poles. This paper presents the spectra-interferometry technique and explains how the DT layer thickness could be deduced from channelled spectra. First experimental results on a 125 m thick empty shell are also reported.