Performance of high-convergence, layered DT implosions with extended-duration pulses at the National Ignition Facility.

ABSTRACT

Radiation-driven, low-adiabat, cryogenic DT layered plastic capsule implosions were carried out on the National Ignition Facility (NIF) to study the sensitivity of performance to peak power and drive duration. An implosion with extended drive and at reduced peak power of 350 TW achieved the highest compression with fuel areal density of ~1.3±0.1 g/cm2, representing a significant step from previously measured ~1.0 g/cm2 toward a goal of 1.5 g/cm2. Future experiments will focus on understanding and mitigating hydrodynamic instabilities and mix, and improving symmetry required to reach the threshold for thermonuclear ignition on NIF.