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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.
I. Geoffray, J. Andre, R. Bourdenet, J. Schunck, C. Chicanne, M. Theobald
Fusion Science and Technology | Volume 70 | Number 2 | August-September 2016 | Pages 244-253
Technical Paper | doi.org/10.13182/FST15-221
Articles are hosted by Taylor and Francis Online.
Hydrodynamics growth experiments involve rippled ablator samples (CHx, Ge:CH, or Si:CH). The rippled surface features a microscale mathematical shape (sinusoidal functions are widely used). Nevertheless, experiments have progressed with time, and samples evolved gradually from two-dimensional (planar samples) to three-dimensional geometries (capsules).
This paper presents various processes that have been developed to fulfill such specifications. Various technologies, based on laser means (excimer laser, Ti:sapphire laser) or mechanical ultraprecision means, have been successfully applied to ripples machining (planar samples or capsules).
The main results are discussed showing the ability and accuracy of each technology as well as their main limitations. We focus especially on our latest results (i.e., rippled or grooved capsules).