Fusion fuel target device

Abstract

The utility model provides a fusion fuel target device. The fusion fuel target device includes a first fuel material region having a first ignition temperature; a second fuel material region coupled with the first fuel material region; optionally, a third fuel material region configured such that the first fuel material region is sandwiched between a second fuel material region located in the central region and having a higher ignition temperature than the first fuel material region, and the third fuel material region configured such that the second fuel material region is located in the central region and has a higher ignition temperature than the first fuel material region. The third fuel material region is an outer layer region and has a higher ignition temperature than the first fuel material region. The device can realize low ignition temperature, minimization of neutron generation and high-density compression, and introduces a new function for a fusion fuel target of inertial confinement fusion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a fusion fuel target device for inertial confinement fusion (ICF). Background Technology

[0002] Since ancient times, humankind has extracted energy from natural materials such as wood, coal, oil, and gas. Another promising energy source is fusion energy.

[0003] Fusion energy is a type of energy produced when two atomic nuclei fuse together, releasing a large amount of energy in the process. It is considered a potentially clean and abundant energy source because the fuel used in fusion reactions (primarily hydrogen) is very abundant on Earth, and these reactions do not produce greenhouse gases or other harmful pollutants.

[0004] There are two main methods to achieve fusion reactions: inertial confinement fusion (ICF) and magnetic confinement fusion (MCF).

[0005] Inertial confinement fusion (ICF) involves using a high-energy laser or particle beam to compress and heat a small pellet of hydrogen fuel, causing it to fuse. The fuel is typically a mixture of deuterium (D) and tritium (T) (two isotopes of hydrogen). The fuel is contained within a small, spherical capsule called a hohlraum, located at the center of a chamber filled with the high-energy laser or particle beam. When the laser or particle beam strikes the hohlraum, it produces uniform X-ray radiation that heats and compresses the fuel within the hohlraum. This brings the fuel to the temperature and pressure conditions required for fusion.

[0006] The main advantage of ICF lies in its potential to generate a fusion reaction using a relatively small amount of fuel at a relatively low cost. However, this process is still in the experimental stage and faces significant technical challenges before it can be considered a practical energy source.

[0007] Magnetic confinement fusion (MCF) involves using a powerful magnetic field to contain and heat an plasma of hydrogen fuel (a hot, ionized gas), causing it to fuse. The most common type of MCF is called tokamak fusion, which uses a toroidal (donut-shaped) chamber to contain the plasma. A strong magnetic field, generated by passing an electric current through a set of coil windings surrounding the chamber, keeps the plasma at the center of the chamber. The plasma is heated by injecting energy into it using a particle beam or electromagnetic waves.

[0008] The main advantage of MCF lies in its potential to generate larger-scale fusion reactions, making it more suitable for power generation. However, compared to ICF, it is a more complex and costly process, and significant technological challenges remain to be overcome before it can be considered a practical energy source.

[0009] Significant progress has been made in both ICF and MCF in recent years, with multiple experimental facilities around the world studying these technologies. However, achieving sustained fusion reactions with net energy production (i.e., fusion reactions that produce more energy than are required to start and sustain the reaction) remains a major technological challenge.

[0010] Other methods for fusion energy are being explored, such as magnetized target fusion and muon-catalyzed fusion. However, these methods are still in the early stages of development. It remains unclear whether fusion energy can serve as a viable energy source.

[0011] In conclusion, fusion energy has the potential to become a clean and abundant energy source, but significant technological challenges must be overcome before it can be considered a practical energy source. Utility Model Content

[0012] According to this invention, technologies related to fusion energy generation are provided. Specifically, this invention provides a fuel pellet for fusion energy and a related method. More specifically, this invention provides fuel pellets with different ignition temperatures capable of being ignited from a laser fusion system and undergoing thermonuclear combustion, maximizing fusion gain while minimizing neutron emission. By way of example only, this invention can be applied to a variety of applications, including energy generation for electricity, spacecraft, travel, other air, land, and water transportation, defense applications (e.g., satellites, aerospace, land and missile defense, submarines, ships), biotechnology, chemical, mechanical, electrical, and communications and / or data applications.

[0013] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a fusion fuel target device for inertial confinement fusion (ICF). The device has a first fuel material region characterized by a first ignition temperature; and a second fuel material region coupled to the first fuel material region. The device has a third fuel material region configured such that the first fuel material region is sandwiched between the second fuel material region and the third fuel material region. In one embodiment, the second fuel material region is disposed in a central region and its ignition temperature is higher than that of the first fuel material region. In one embodiment, the third fuel material region is an outer region, and its ignition temperature is also higher than that of the first fuel material region.

[0014] In an alternative embodiment, the present invention provides a spherical target device for inertial fusion. The device comprises multiple multilayer fuel layers, the outermost fuel layer being composed of pB... 11 pB 10 or at least contains pB 11 or pB 10 The material composition.

[0015] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a fuel target device, for example, for an inertial confinement fusion process. The device has a central region comprising a first fuel material region, characterized by having a minimum ignition temperature or energy. The device has a second outer region surrounding the central region and comprising a second fuel material region, characterized by having an ignition temperature or energy higher than the minimum ignition temperature or energy of the first fuel material region. Optionally, the device further has a third outer region surrounding the second outer region and comprising a third fuel material region, characterized by having an ignition temperature or energy higher than the higher ignition temperature or energy of the second fuel material region; optionally, it further has a fourth outer region surrounding the third outer region and comprising a fourth fuel material region, characterized by having an ignition temperature or energy higher than the higher ignition temperature or energy of the third fuel material region.

[0016] In an alternative embodiment, the present invention provides a fusion fuel target device for inertial confinement fusion (ICF). The device has a first fuel material region characterized by a first ignition temperature; and a second fuel material region coupled to the first fuel material region. Optionally, the device has a third fuel material region configured such that the first fuel material region is sandwiched between the second and third fuel material regions. The second fuel material region is disposed in a central region and has a higher ignition temperature than the first fuel material region. In one embodiment, the third fuel material region is an outer region and has a higher ignition temperature than the first fuel material region.

[0017] This invention achieves a number of benefits and / or advantages. In one embodiment, the present invention provides a clean energy source that is highly efficient (low ignition temperature) and does not produce large amounts of neutrons. In other embodiments, the present invention uses hydrogen and boron, two abundant and stable elements, as fusion fuels. In one embodiment, the present invention provides a cost-effective and efficient method for producing fusion energy, avoiding the large-scale use of scarce deuterium and tritium. In addition to economic considerations, the fusion reaction between hydrogen and boron does not produce neutrons as a byproduct. These and other benefits and / or advantages can be achieved through the device and related methods. More detailed information about these benefits and / or advantages can be found throughout the specification, and more particularly in the following description.

[0018] The nature and advantages of this utility model can be further understood by referring to the latter part of the specification and the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0019] For a fuller understanding of this invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that these drawings should not be considered as limiting the scope of this invention; the embodiments currently described and the best mode of the invention as understood therein will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings, wherein:

[0020] Figure 1 This is a simplified schematic diagram of a target for inertial confinement fusion (ICF) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 2 This is a simplified schematic diagram of a rapid ignition method according to an embodiment of the present invention, which uses additional picosecond or femtosecond pulses for ignition.

[0022] Figure 3 This is a simplified schematic diagram of a rapid ignition method according to an embodiment of the present invention, which uses additional picosecond or femtosecond pulses for ignition.

[0023] Figure 4 This is a simplified schematic diagram of a rapid ignition method using a novel target with additional picosecond or femtosecond pulses, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 5 This is a simplified schematic diagram of another target for inertial confinement fusion (ICF) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 6 This is a simplified schematic diagram of another target for inertial confinement fusion (ICF) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 7 This is a simplified schematic diagram of indirect ignition using a black cavity according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 8 This is a simplified schematic diagram of a target for inertial confinement fusion (ICF) according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 9 This is a simplified schematic diagram of another target for inertial confinement fusion (ICF) according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 10 This invention illustrates an embodiment using a novel target and internal irradiation technology.

[0030] Figure 11 This is a simplified schematic diagram of a fusion fuel target device for inertial confinement fusion (ICF) according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 12 This is a simplified schematic diagram of another target for inertial confinement fusion (ICF) according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0032] According to this invention, technologies related to fusion energy generation are provided. In particular, this invention provides fuel particles for fusion energy and related methods. More specifically, this invention provides fuel particles capable of lowering ignition temperatures and minimizing neutron production in laser fusion systems. By way of example only, this invention can be applied to a wide range of uses, including energy generation for electricity, spacecraft, travel, other air, land, and water transportation, defense applications (e.g., satellites, aerospace, land and missile defense, submarines, ships), biotechnology, chemical, mechanical, electrical, and communications and / or data applications.

[0033] This invention relates to a nuclear fusion fuel target for inertial confinement fusion, which employs a novel fuel layer configuration. The target design combines different fusion fuels with other materials such as DT (deuterium-tritium) and DLi. 6 (Deuterium-Lithium-6) and p-(or H-)B 11 This application utilizes one or more advantageous properties of (proton-boron-11) to achieve low ignition temperature, minimize neutron production, and high-density compression, introducing new capabilities for fusion fuel targets in inertial confinement fusion. This innovative target design aims to improve the efficiency and feasibility of nuclear fusion in inertial confinement systems, and represents an improvement upon previously filed ideas.

[0034] The disclosed target is characterized by a novel configuration in which a central fuel material region with the lowest ignition temperature or energy (relative to other fuel materials) is sandwiched between other fuel material regions with higher ignition requirements. This structure allows thermonuclear combustion-driven implosion to compress the laser implosion plasma to even higher densities and temperatures. Furthermore, the outermost region of the fuel material serves as a neutron / charged particle conversion layer, designed to efficiently convert high-energy neutrons produced during the fusion reaction into the kinetic energy of charged particles. Through this conversion, the kinetic energy of the neutron flux is transformed into the kinetic energy of the charged particle flux, such as hydrogen atoms or low atomic number particles, which can effectively collide with neutrons, thereby effectively reducing the high-energy neutrons emitted by the target.

[0035] This approach addresses the challenges faced by traditional ICF targets, providing a more efficient means of achieving fusion ignition while mitigating the adverse effects associated with excessive high-energy neutron production. The patent outlines various implementations, including different combinations of fuel materials and laser parameters, to maximize thermonuclear fusion gain / energy efficiency and reduce high-energy neutron emission from the target. Furthermore, the disclosed target can be configured spherically or with various spatial geometries, making its application more flexible.

[0036] This application represents an advancement in fusion fuel target design, making inertial confinement fusion more efficient and reducing neutron emissions. This helps improve the flexibility and lifespan of fusion reactor designs, effectively maintain laser fusion reactor systems, or reduce the radioactive activation of reactor vessels.

[0037] Further details of this invention can be found throughout the specification, and more particularly in the following text.

[0038] The target material is made of a single material from a binary compound, such as deuterium (D)tritium (T) or D(deuterium)Li. 6 (Lithium), P (proton) B 11 (Boron), etc. However, when using a single material of a binary compound as a target, the limitations mentioned below exist.

[0039] When using a single DT material as a target, it produces high-energy neutrons that are harmful to any material. Furthermore, T (tritium) is a radioactive substance. One advantage of DT is its lowest ignition temperature of 13.6 keV. Due to this lowest ignition temperature, over 90% of conventional fusion companies and US national laboratories currently use DT as a target.

[0040] When using DLi 6 When a single material is used as a target, it produces particles such as medium-energy neutrons, tritium (T), and protons. The number and energy of neutrons are much smaller than those of tritium (DT). DLi 6 The ignition temperature of DLi is a moderate 66 keV, much higher than the 13.6 keV of DT. Because DLi... 6 DLi has a high ignition temperature. 6 It has never been expected by scientists to be a target.

[0041] When using pB 11 When a single material is used as a target, no neutrons are produced. pB 11 It is the safest target material among all target materials. However, pB 11 Its maximum ignition temperature is 123 keV, far exceeding DT's 13.6 keV and DLi's. 6 66 keV. Although it is the safest material from an environmental perspective, it has the highest ignition temperature, pB11 Targets are not popular among scientists.

[0042] Considering the advantages of each target material, we combined these materials as described below to invent a new target structure.

[0043] Table 1 below shows the various ignition temperatures (T).

[0044] Table 1

[0045]

[0046] DT has the lowest ignition temperature of 13.6 keV. p(H)Li 6 It has the second lowest ignition temperature of 66 keV. Then, p(H)B 11 It has the highest ignition temperature of 123 keV. Ignition temperature is primarily determined by atomic number. When the atomic number is lower, the ignition temperature or energy is lower due to the smaller charge of the protons. The DT reaction has an atomic number Z=1, resulting in the lowest ignition temperature. pB 11 With a Z=5, it has the highest ignition temperature. pLi 6 pLi 7 DLi 6 or DLi 7 With Z=3, it should have a moderate ignition temperature.

[0047] More details about this technology can be found throughout the specification, and especially in the following text.

[0048] Figure 1 This is a simplified schematic diagram of a target for inertial confinement fusion (ICF) according to an embodiment of the present invention. The target configuration is characterized by a layered structure in which DT fuel, having a first fuel material region with a minimum ignition temperature of 13.6 keV, is sandwiched within DLi fuel, having an ignition temperature of 66 keV and higher than DT. 6 and the pB of the third fuel material region with an ignition temperature of 123 keV and higher than DT. 11 Between 1 ns and 40 ns. In this target structure, when the target is irradiated by a pulse width of 1 ns to 40 ns and the total pulse power density is 1 × 10⁻⁶. 13 W / cm² to 1 × 10 20 When a nanosecond pulsed laser (including variants) with a W / cm² is compressed at least 100 to 20,000 times (and greater), the DT in the first fuel material region has the lowest ignition temperature. The fusion ignition density and temperature are achieved by an implosion driven by the nanosecond pulsed laser, and the thermonuclear combustion of the first fuel material layer of the DT is initiated first.

[0049] Next, the DLi in the second fuel material region 6 The implosion, driven by the energy of thermonuclear combustion in the first fuel material region (DT), is compressed to higher densities and temperatures. Once the second fuel material region (DTLi) is compressed... 6 The temperature exceeds the ignition standard of 66keV, and the DLi in the second fuel material region... 6 It will be ignited, DLi 6 Thermonuclear combustion releases its fusion energy and heats the first and second fuel material regions to higher temperatures. Then, when the third fuel material region is compressed, the p(H)B 11 When the temperature exceeds the ignition temperature of 123 keV, the p(H)B of the third fuel material region... 11 It was set on fire.

[0050] pB 11 The fusion reaction produces charged hydrogen and boron atoms with low atomic numbers, as well as other byproducts. These ionized hydrogen and boron atoms react with those from DT and DLi. 6 Neutrons produced by the fusion reaction collide with each other, and then the high momentum energy of the neutrons is transferred to these charged hydrogen and boron atoms as kinetic energy. Therefore, using this novel target design, the production of high-energy neutrons is reduced or even minimized.

[0051] The outermost region of the third fuel material region has a layer of material containing hydrogen atoms or low atomic number atoms, designed as a conversion layer. Upon collision with neutrons produced during the fusion reaction, this conversion layer accepts the momentum of the neutrons and converts it into the kinetic energy of charged particles (such as hydrogen atoms or low atomic number particles) escaping from the target. For example, solid hydrogen (H) can be used as the conversion agent instead of pB. 11 In this scenario, ignition of H will not occur. Charged hydrogen atoms collide with neutrons, thereby reducing or minimizing neutron production as described above.

[0052] Using this technology, the ignition temperature is as low as 13.6 keV for DT, and by using pB 11 As a conversion layer, neutron production is minimized. This ignition technique, known as center ignition, utilizes nanosecond pulsed lasers for implosion and ignition.

[0053] Figure 2 This is a simplified schematic diagram of a rapid ignition method according to an embodiment of the present invention, using additional picosecond or femtosecond pulses for ignition. In this case, the target is compressed by at least 100 to 20,000 times by the nanosecond pulsed laser irradiating the target, the pulse width of the nanosecond pulsed laser being 1 ns to 40 ns, and the total pulse power density being 1 × 10⁻⁶. 13 W / cm² to 1 × 1018 W / cm². After the target is compressed, as shown in the figure, the compressed plasma is externally heated from outside the target using picosecond or femtosecond lasers to reach the fusion ignition temperature, thereby initiating the thermonuclear combustion of the first fuel material layer (DT). Here, the laser beam is focused within a 10–50 micrometer range on the target, resulting in a total peak laser power density of 1 × 10⁻⁶ W / cm². 17 W / cm² to 1 × 10 24 W / cm². After the DT in the first fuel material region is ignited, DLi 6 and pB 11 It is continuously ignited as described above.

[0054] Using this technology, the ignition temperature is as low as 13.6 keV for DT, and by using pB 11 As a conversion layer, neutron production is minimized, as previously described. This ignition method, known as fast ignition, utilizes nanosecond pulsed laser compression and picosecond or femtosecond pulses for ignition.

[0055] Figure 3 This is a simplified schematic diagram of a rapid ignition method according to an embodiment of the present invention, using additional picosecond or femtosecond pulses for ignition. The target configuration is characterized by a layered structure, wherein the first fuel material region has a DLi with a minimum ignition temperature of 66 keV. 6 The fuel is sandwiched in the pB region of the second fuel material with an ignition temperature higher than DT of 123 keV. 11 and the pB of the third fuel material region with an ignition temperature higher than DT of 123 keV 10 between.

[0056] In this structure, the target is compressed by at least 100 to 20,000 times by the nanosecond pulsed laser irradiating it, wherein the pulse width of the nanosecond pulsed laser is 1 ns to 40 ns, and the total pulse power density is 1 × 10⁻⁶. 13 W / cm² to 1 × 10 18 W / cm². After the target is compressed, DLi is injected into the first fuel material region from the conical groove. 6 Chinese (e.g.) Figure 3 Picosecond or femtosecond lasers (as shown) externally heat the compressed plasma to reach the fusion ignition temperature, thereby igniting the DLi of the first fuel material layer. 6 Thermonuclear combustion is achieved by focusing the laser beam within 10–50 micrometers on a conical groove, resulting in a total peak laser power density of 1 × 10⁻⁶. 17 W / cm² to 1 × 10 24 W / cm². The conical groove includes a tip that is positioned in the DLi of the first fuel material region. 6The area near or inside the conical groove is coated with a high-Z metal material, such as gold (Au), lead (Pb), titanium (Ti), and other suitable high-Z metals or alloys thereof. In this case, picosecond or femtosecond pulsed lasers directly irradiate the DLi through the conical groove. 6 This is better than Figure 2 More effective in the middle. In Figure 2 In this case, picosecond or femtosecond pulsed lasers are from pB 11 The surface of the target is irradiated. Therefore, due to the pB of the third fusion region... 10 Due to absorption and scattering, only a portion of the laser beam can reach the DLi region of the first fuel material. 6 DLi in the first fuel material region 6 After being ignited, DLi 6 and pB 10 like Figure 1 As described above, it is continuously ignited.

[0057] Using this technology, ignition temperatures can be as low as DLi. 6 66 keV, and by pB 10 As a conversion layer, neutron production is minimized, such as Figure 1 As described in the text. This ignition method is called rapid ignition, which uses nanosecond pulsed laser for compression and picosecond or femtosecond pulses for ignition.

[0058] Figure 4 This is a simplified schematic diagram of a rapid ignition method according to an embodiment of the present invention, using a novel target for ignition with additional picosecond or femtosecond pulses. The target configuration is characterized by a layered structure in which DT fuel, having a first fuel material region with a minimum ignition temperature of 13.6 keV, is sandwiched within DLi fuel in a second fuel material region with an ignition temperature higher than DT and 66 keV. 6 pB of the third fuel material region with an ignition temperature higher than DT and 123 keV 11 between.

[0059] In this structure, the target is compressed by at least 100 to 20,000 times (and greater) by nanosecond pulsed laser light irradiating the target, the pulse width of which is 1 ns to 40 ns, and the total pulse power density is 1 × 10⁻⁶. 13 W / cm² to 1× 10 18 W / cm². After the target is compressed, the DT material (e.g., from the conical groove directly to the first fuel material region) is used. Figure 4The picosecond or femtosecond laser (as shown) externally heats the compressed plasma to the fusion ignition temperature, thereby initiating the thermonuclear combustion of the first fuel material layer (DT). The total peak laser power density is 1 × 10⁻⁶ micrometers, achieved by focusing the laser within a 10–50 micrometer range in a conical groove. 17 W / cm² to 1 × 10 24 W / cm². The conical groove includes a tip, which is positioned near or inside the DT region of the first fuel material. Figure 4 In this configuration, a conical metal strip extends to the outside of the target. In this case, picosecond or femtosecond pulsed laser light directly irradiates the target through the conical groove, which is more efficient than... Figure 3 More effective in the middle. In Figure 3 In this case, picosecond or femtosecond pulsed lasers irradiate the target through a conical groove formed on the target surface, such as... Figure 3 As shown. The target surface has plasma caused by irradiation with a compressed nanosecond pulsed laser. Due to the strong plasma on the surface, the picosecond or femtosecond pulsed laser is interfered with when it reaches the interior of the cone in Figure 3. When the cone is as shown... Figure 4 As shown, when extending outward from the target surface, picosecond or femtosecond pulsed lasers can reach the interior of the extended cone unaffected by the target surface plasma. After the DT in the first fuel material region is ignited, DLi... 6 and pB 11 according to Figure 1 As described above, it is continuously ignited.

[0060] Using this technology, the ignition temperature is as low as 13.6 keV for DT, and by using pB 11 As a conversion layer, neutron production is minimized, as previously described. This ignition method, known as fast ignition, utilizes nanosecond pulsed laser compression and picosecond or femtosecond pulses for ignition.

[0061] Figure 5 This is a simplified schematic diagram of another target for inertial confinement fusion (ICF) according to an embodiment of the present invention. The target configuration is characterized by a layered structure in which DT fuel, having a first fuel material region with a minimum ignition temperature of 13.6 keV, is sandwiched within DLi fuel in a second fuel material region with an ignition temperature higher than DT and 66 keV. 6 pB of the third fuel material region with an ignition temperature higher than DT and 123 keV 11 Between. In this invention, in the DLi of the second fuel material region. 6At the center, a shell-like void is formed to compress the target, causing the plasma from each fuel to accelerate towards the central region with high kinetic energy. Then, in the central region of the void, the plasma's kinetic energy is converted into internal energy, forming a hot spot and subsequently igniting. In this target structure, when the target is irradiated by a pulse width of 1 ns to 40 ns and a total pulse power density of 1 × 10⁻⁶, the target is suitable for such applications. 13 W / cm² to 1 × 10 20 When the nanosecond pulsed laser with W / cm² is compressed at least 100 to 20,000 times, the DT in the first fuel material region has the lowest ignition temperature. The fusion ignition density and temperature are achieved and ignited by the implosion driven by the nanosecond pulsed laser, which first initiates the thermonuclear combustion of the first fuel material layer of the DT.

[0062] Next, the DLi in the second fuel material region 6 Compressed to implosion and ignited by the energy of thermonuclear combustion of DT in the first fuel material region, DT in the first fuel material region surrounds DTLi in the second fuel material region. 6 To further enhance the DLi through the ignition energy of DT in the first fuel material region. 6 Isotope compression is then performed. Then, the p(H)B of the third fuel material region is... 11 DLi in the second fuel material region 6 The energy from thermonuclear combustion is ignited.

[0063] pB 11 The fusion reaction produces charged hydrogen and boron atoms with low atomic numbers. These charged hydrogen and boron atoms react with those from DT and DLi. 6 Neutrons produced by the fusion reaction collide with each other, and their high momentum energy is transferred as kinetic energy to the charged hydrogen and boron atoms. Therefore, by using this novel target design, the production of high-energy neutrons is minimized.

[0064] The outermost region of the third fuel material region has a material layer containing hydrogen atoms or low atomic number atoms, designed as a conversion layer. Upon collision with neutrons produced during the fusion reaction, the conversion layer absorbs the momentum of the neutrons and converts it into the kinetic energy of charged particles (such as hydrogen atoms or low atomic number particles) escaping from the target. For example, solid hydrogen (H) can be used instead of pB. 11 As a conversion layer, ignition of H is not achieved in this case. Charged hydrogen atoms collide with neutrons, thereby reducing or minimizing neutron production as described above.

[0065] Using this technology, the ignition temperature is as low as 13.6 keV for DT, and by using pB 11This serves as a conversion layer to minimize neutron production. This ignition method, known as center ignition, uses only nanosecond pulsed lasers for implosion and ignition.

[0066] The void at the center of the second fuel material region can be used for other fuel materials in the second fuel material region to easily compress the fuel materials, thereby accelerating the plasma of each fuel towards the central region with high kinetic energy using a nanosecond pulsed laser for central ignition or a rapid ignition method. Then, in the central region of the void, the kinetic energy of the plasma is converted into internal energy to form a hot spot and subsequently ignite.

[0067] Figure 6 This is a simplified schematic diagram of another target for inertial confinement fusion (ICF) according to an embodiment of the present invention. The target configuration is characterized by a layered structure in which DT fuel, having a first fuel material region with a minimum ignition temperature of 13.6 keV, is sandwiched within DLi fuel in a second fuel material region with an ignition temperature higher than DT and 66 keV. 6 pB of the third fuel material region with an ignition temperature higher than DT and 123 keV 11 or pB 10 Between. In this target structure, the pB of the third fuel material region. 11 or pB 10 It consists of or is contained within a foam or porous structure. Nanosecond pulsed laser light is directed through the pores of the foam or porous structure, either after multiple reflections or directly through these pores, into the DT region of the first fuel material. Therefore, with... Figure 1 In comparison, nanosecond pulsed lasers more effectively irradiate the DT fuel in the first fuel material region. When the pulse width irradiating the target is 1 ns to 40 ns and the total pulse power density is 1 × 10⁻⁶, the effect is more efficient. 13 W / cm² to 1 × 10 20 When the nanosecond pulsed laser with a W / cm² is compressed at least 100 to 20,000 times, the DT in the first fuel material region is directly irradiated by the laser and has the lowest ignition temperature. The implosion driven by the nanosecond pulsed laser achieves the fusion ignition density and temperature and ignites the DT, which first initiates the thermonuclear combustion of the first fuel material layer of the DT.

[0068] Next, the DLi in the second fuel material region 6 Compressed to the point of implosion and ignited by the thermonuclear combustion energy of the DT in the first fuel material region, the DT in the first fuel material region surrounds the DTLi in the second fuel material region. 6 To further process DLi through the DT in the first fuel material region 6 Isotope compression is then performed. Then, the p(H)B of the third fuel material region is... 11 or pB10 DLi in the second fuel material region 6 The energy from thermonuclear combustion is ignited.

[0069] Whether it is composed of foam or porous structures or contained within foam or porous materials, pB 11 or pB 10 Fusion reactions in both DT and DLi generate charged hydrogen and boron atoms with low atomic numbers. These charged hydrogen and boron atoms react with those from DT and DLi. 6 Neutrons produced by the fusion reaction collide with each other, and their high momentum energy is subsequently transferred to the charged hydrogen and boron atoms as kinetic energy. Therefore, by using this novel target design, the production of high-energy neutrons is minimized.

[0070] The outermost region of the third fuel material region consists of a material layer containing hydrogen atoms or low atomic number atoms after ignition. This layer is designed as a conversion layer. Upon collision with neutrons produced during the fusion reaction, the conversion layer absorbs the momentum of the neutrons and converts it into the kinetic energy of charged particles (such as hydrogen atoms or low atomic number particles) escaping from the target. For example, solid hydrogen (H) can be used as the conversion layer instead of pB. 11 or pB 10 In this scenario, ignition of H will not occur. Charged hydrogen atoms collide with neutrons, thereby reducing or minimizing neutron production as described above.

[0071] Using this technology, the ignition temperature is as low as 13.6 keV for DT, and by using pB 11 or pB 10 As a conversion layer, neutron production is reduced or minimized. This ignition method, known as center ignition, uses only nanosecond pulsed lasers for implosion and ignition.

[0072] Figure 7 This is a simplified schematic diagram illustrating indirect ignition using a black cavity according to an embodiment of the present invention. In one embodiment, Figure 1 The target used is placed inside a cylindrical black cavity. Nanosecond pulsed lasers with pulse widths of 1 ns to 40 ns and total pulse energies of 1 to 10 megajoules are then irradiated onto the surface of the black cavity through both sides of the cylindrical black cavity windows to generate X-rays. Subsequently, the X-rays ignite the target, first igniting the DT region of the first fuel material, followed by... Figure 1 The aforementioned continuous ignition of DLi 6 and pB 11 .

[0073] In addition, pB 11 pB 10 or at least contains pB 11or pB 10 The material is coated on the outer surface of the black cavity to reduce or prevent high-energy neutrons from passing through it. The third fuel material region's pB... 11 or pB 10 The fuel functions as a conversion layer. When the conversion layer collides with neutrons produced during the fusion reaction, it absorbs the momentum energy of the neutrons and converts it into the kinetic energy of charged particles (such as hydrogen atoms or low atomic number particles) escaping from the target. Figure 1 As described in [the text].

[0074] At the same time, pB 11 pB 10 or at least contains pB 11 or pB 10 The material is coated on the outer surface of the black cavity to shield high-energy neutrons and prevent them from escaping from the black cavity. Therefore, by using a coated black cavity, DT and DLi... 6 The number of neutrons produced by ignition is further reduced.

[0075] Use the above Figures 1 to 7 The technology mentioned above has an ignition temperature as low as 13.6 keV, and utilizes pB... 11 or pB 10 The number of neutrons produced by the conversion agent due to DT ignition is reduced. This is achieved by using a coating of pB... 11 or pB 10 The number of neutrons generated in the black cavity is further reduced.

[0076] In the present invention described above, a picosecond pulsed laser source refers to a laser source with a pulse width between 1 picosecond and 900 picoseconds. A nanosecond pulsed laser source refers to a laser source with a pulse width between 1 nanosecond and 40 nanoseconds. A femtosecond pulsed laser source refers to a laser source with a pulse width between 10 femtoseconds and 1000 femtoseconds. The wavelength range of nanosecond, picosecond, and femtosecond laser sources is from UV (340 nm) to IR (1080 nm).

[0077] In one embodiment, a picosecond laser source outputs picosecond pulses that are focused onto a target device configured to achieve wavefront laser power uniformity using one or more deformable mirrors or cavity devices. In another embodiment, a nanosecond laser source and a picosecond laser source each emit multiple nanosecond pulses and multiple picosecond pulses, respectively, the pulses being configured to be focused onto a target using one or more concave mirrors or lenses. In yet another embodiment, the emission wavelength and phase, or both wavelength and phase, of at least one nanosecond pulse laser source differ from the other nanosecond pulse laser sources.

[0078] In one embodiment, the emission wavelength, phase, or both wavelength and phase of each nanosecond pulsed laser source differ from any other nanosecond pulsed laser source to achieve the desired incoherence or minimize interference effects near the cavity or reactor center. A Fabry-Perot cavity refers to a plurality of Fabry-Perot cavities configured to form a hub and spoke structure intersecting at the reactor center. In one embodiment, the cavity length of at least one of the plurality of Fabry-Perot cavities differs from one or more of the other Fabry-Perot cavities. In one embodiment, each Fabry-Perot cavity has a different cavity length.

[0079] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a fusion fuel target device for inertial confinement fusion (ICF). The device has a first fuel material region characterized by having a first ignition temperature; and a second fuel material region coupled to the first fuel material region. The device also has a third fuel material region configured such that the first fuel material region is sandwiched between the second and third fuel material regions. In one embodiment, the second fuel material region is disposed in a central region and has a higher ignition temperature than the first fuel material region. In another embodiment, the third fuel material region is an outer region and has a higher ignition temperature than the first fuel material region.

[0080] In one embodiment, the third fuel material region includes a conversion layer that, upon collision with neutrons produced during the fusion reaction, accepts the momentum energy of the neutrons and converts it into the kinetic energy of charged particles, causing these charged particles to escape outward from the central region. In one embodiment, the first fuel material region is configured to ignite before the second or third fuel material region. In one embodiment, the third fuel material region is characterized by simultaneous conversion and thermonuclear combustion. In one embodiment, the third fuel material region is surrounded by an ablative material used to absorb incident laser energy and ablate outward to drive an implosion. In one embodiment, the third fuel material region is characterized by simultaneous conversion and ablation. In one embodiment, the first fuel material region includes D(deuterium)T(tritium) and DHe. 3 DD, or DLi 6 (Deuterium-Lithium-6) or DLi 7 At least one of (deuterium-lithium-7). In one embodiment, the second fuel material region includes DHe 3 DLi 6 (Deuterium-Lithium-6), DLi 7 (Deuterium-Lithium-7), H(Hydrogen)Li 6 HLi 7 pB 11 or pB 10At least one of the following. In one embodiment, the third fuel material region includes P (or H)B. 11 or pB 10 At least one of the following. In one embodiment, the third fuel material region includes (hydrogen)H, P (or H)-B. 11 or pB 10 Or at least one of the particles with low atomic number.

[0081] In one embodiment, the device is irradiated with multiple nanosecond pulsed lasers, the pulse width of which ranges from 1 ns to 40 ns, and the total pulse power density is 1 × 10⁻⁶. 13 W / cm² to 1 × 10 20 W / cm², compressing the device by at least 100 to 20,000 times while thermonuclear combustion begins in the first fuel material region.

[0082] In one embodiment, the device is characterized by irradiating pulses with a width of 1 ns to 40 ns and a total pulse power density of 1 × 10⁻⁶. 13 W / cm² to 1 × 10 18 Simultaneously, a nanosecond pulsed laser of W / cm² is emitted, while the total peak laser power density on the device is 1 × 10⁻⁶ from external sources. 17 W / cm² to 1 × 10 24 Picosecond or femtosecond lasers with W / cm² induce thermonuclear combustion in the first fuel material region.

[0083] In one embodiment, the device has other variations. The device has a conical groove internally configured. In one embodiment, the conical groove includes a tip located near or within a first fuel material region. In one embodiment, the conical groove includes an outer surface coated with a high-Z-value metallic material, such as gold (Au), lead (Pb), and at least one other suitable high-Z metallic material. In one embodiment, a picosecond or femtosecond laser is irradiated through the conical groove configured in the device. In one embodiment, the picosecond laser is configured to be focused onto a laser spot of 5 to 50 micrometers in size on the groove configured on the device. In one embodiment, the device is spherical with a diameter of 1 to 10 millimeters.

[0084] In one embodiment, the device has a material different from any one of the first fuel material region, the second fuel material region, or the third fuel material region (collectively referred to as fuel material regions), the material being disposed between at least one pair of fuel material regions, or between any fuel material region and an ablative material. In one embodiment, a void is formed in the central region of the second fuel material region.

[0085] In an alternative embodiment, the present invention provides a spherical target device for inertial fusion. The device has multiple multilayer fuel layers, with the outermost fuel layer being composed of pB... 11 pB 10 or at least contains pB 11 or pB 10 The material composition.

[0086] In one embodiment, the multilayer fuel consists of two to three layers of different fuel materials. The device also has a conical groove containing a tip located near or within a DT fuel layer or region configured in one of the multilayer fuels. In one embodiment, one of the multilayer fuels contains a DT configured as the first ignition fuel material. In one embodiment, the device is placed inside a cylindrical black cavity. In one embodiment, pB 11 pB 10 or at least contains pB 11 or pB 10 The material is coated on the outer surface of the black cavity. In one embodiment, the black cavity is irradiated by multiple nanosecond pulsed lasers with pulse widths of 1 ns to 40 ns and a total pulse energy of 1 to 10 megajoules, which irradiate the surface of the inner region of the black cavity to generate X-rays that pass through one or more opening windows of the black cavity to irradiate the device to ignite the device.

[0087] Figure 8 This is a simplified schematic diagram of a target for inertial confinement fusion (ICF) according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in the figure, D(deuterium)T(tritium)Li 6 or DTLi 7 The fuel is the first fuel located in the central region of the target. Here, DLi 6 or DLi 7 Part of the D in the mixture is replaced by T. Surrounding DT is the second fuel p (protons or H (hydrogen)) B. 11 (Boron) fuel. DTLi 6 or DTLi 7 It is solid at room temperature. Due to DTLi 6 or DTLi 7 Considered to be DT and DLi 6 or DLi 7 A mixture, therefore DTLi 6 or DTLi 7 The ignition temperature is lower than that of DLi 6 or DLi 7 Therefore, DTLi 6 or DTLi 7 The ignition temperature is believed to be between 13.6 keV for DT and 13.6 keV for DLi. 6Between 66 keV. Furthermore, due to DTLi 6 or DTLi 7 Considered to be DT and DLi 6 or DLi 7 A mixture, therefore DTLi 6 or DTLi 7 The target gain is considered to be higher than that of DLi. 6 or DLi 7 The outermost layer is an ablation material. A conical groove or metal cone is formed on the target. The tip of the conical groove or metal cone is located at DTLi. 6 or DTLi 7 Near or inside the primary fuel material. It has a pulse width of 1 ns to 40 ns and a 1 × 10⁻⁶ pulse density. 13 W / cm² to 1 × 10 18 A nanosecond pulsed laser with a total pulse power density of W / cm² is applied to a target, which is then compressed by at least 100 to 20,000 times or more through laser ablation.

[0088] In one embodiment, a picosecond or femtosecond laser source outputs a picosecond or femtosecond pulse focused onto a conical groove on a target, with a total peak pulse power density of 1 × 10⁻⁶. 18 W / cm² to 1 × 10 24 W / cm². The picosecond laser source is focused onto a small laser spot on the slot, with a spot size ranging from 5 to 50 micrometers. The target diameter is 1 to 9 millimeters, and it is spherical or cylindrical. Therefore, the size of the conical slot is almost the same as or slightly larger than the laser spot size. The high-intensity picosecond or femtosecond laser source directly and effectively irradiates and ignites the DTLi through the slot. 6 or DTLi 7 Its ignition temperature is relatively low, between 13.6 keV and 66 keV. When there is no slot in the target, due to the second fuel pB 11 High-intensity picosecond or femtosecond laser beams were prevented from reaching the first fuel, DTLi. 6 or DTLi 7 High-intensity picosecond or femtosecond laser sources cannot effectively ignite DTLi 6 or DTLi 7 Subsequently, DTLi 6 or DTLi 7 Ignition produces high-energy charged particles and high-energy neutrons as plasma.

[0089] Next, by DTLi 6 or DTLi 7 The high-energy charged particles and high-energy neutrons produced by ignition are used to ignite the surrounding DTLi 6 or DTLi 7Second fuel pB 11 .

[0090] Then, through pB 11 In the ignition reaction, p effectively collides with high-energy neutrons, transferring momentum and energy from the high-energy neutrons to the protons. After the high-energy neutrons lose energy, the low-energy neutrons are absorbed by the charged boron (B). Thus, using this novel target can reduce or even minimize neutron production. By using this invention, the ignition temperature can be as low as 13.6 keV to 66 keV, and the amount of neutron production is reduced or even minimized. When pB 11 When directly ignited by laser, pB 11 The ignition temperature is 123 keV, while DTLi 6 or DTLi 7 The ignition temperature ranges from 13.6 keV to 66 keV, significantly lower than that of pB. 11 The ignition temperature.

[0091] In one embodiment, the outermost material of the target is an ablation material, which is irradiated by a high-power-density nanosecond laser, resulting in intense compression within the target. The ablation material can include, but is not limited to, Al (28 N / MW), polyoxymethylene (POM) polymer (125 N / MW), tantalum-tungsten alloy (Taw, 31 N / MW), and Au. Delrin® (POM, a polymer, 125 N / MW) is the preferred target material due to its highest Newton number per megawatt. Al, Taw, and Au are also desirable materials. When the outer elastic material is a polymer such as perylene, polystyrene, or PVA, the elastic material itself can serve as the ablation material. In one embodiment, laser ablation is preferably performed in a vacuum, using a high-intensity nanosecond laser pulse to generate vapor and plasma jets from the ablation material. If a sufficiently intense pulsed laser beam strikes the ablation material on the target surface, a high-temperature jet is generated. Momentum is the product of mass and velocity toward the interior of the target.

[0092] Figure 9 This is a simplified schematic diagram of another target for inertial confinement fusion (ICF) according to an embodiment of the present invention. D(deuterium)T(tritium)Li 6 or DTLi 7 The fuel is the first fuel located in the central region of the target. Surrounding DTLi 6 or DTLi 7 The first fuel, the target has a second fuel DLi 6 Then comes the third fuel, pB. 11 The outermost layer is an ablation material. A conical groove is formed on the target. The tip of the conical groove is located at DTLi. 6 or DTLi7 Near or inside the primary fuel material. It has a pulse width of 1 ns to 40 ns and a 1 × 10⁻⁶ pulse density. 13 W / cm² to 1 × 10 18 A nanosecond pulse with a total pulse power density of W / cm² is applied to the target, which is then compressed by at least 100 to 20,000 times through laser ablation.

[0093] In one embodiment, a picosecond or femtosecond laser source outputs a picosecond or femtosecond pulse focused onto a conical groove on a target, with a total peak pulse power density of 1 × 10⁻⁶. 17 W / cm² to 1 × 10 24 W / cm². The picosecond laser source is focused onto a small laser spot on the slot, with a spot size ranging from 5 to 50 micrometers. The target is spherical, with a diameter of 1 to 9 millimeters. Therefore, the size of the conical slot is almost the same as or slightly larger than the laser spot size. The high-intensity picosecond or femtosecond laser source directly and effectively irradiates and ignites the DTLi through the slot. 6 or DTLi 7 Its ignition temperature is relatively low, between 13.6 keV and 66 keV, such as Figure 1 As stated above. When there is no groove on the target, due to the second fuel DLi... 6 and third fuel pB 11 High-intensity picosecond or femtosecond laser beams were prevented from reaching the first fuel, DTLi. 6 or DTLi 7 High-intensity picosecond or femtosecond laser sources cannot effectively ignite DTLi 6 or DTLi 7 Subsequently, at temperatures between 13.6 keV and 66 keV, DTLi 6 or DTLi 7 Ignition produces high-energy charged particles and high-energy neutrons as plasma.

[0094] Next, by DTLi 6 or DTLi 7 The high-energy charged particles and high-energy neutrons produced by ignition are used to ignite the surrounding DTLi 6 or DTLi 7 Second fuel DLi 6 Its ignition temperature is 66 keV. Subsequently, it was developed by DLi. 6 The high-energy charged particles, neutrons, and other particles produced by the ignition reaction are used to ignite the surrounding DLi 6 The third fuel pB 11 Its ignition temperature is 123 keV.

[0095] Then, through pB 11In the ignition reaction, p effectively collides with high-energy neutrons, and momentum energy is transferred from the high-energy neutrons to the protons. After the high-energy neutrons lose energy, the low-energy neutrons are absorbed by the charged boron (B). Thus, the production of neutrons can be minimized using the novel target of this invention. By using this invention, the ignition temperature can be as low as 13.6 keV to 66 keV, and the amount of neutrons produced is reduced or even minimized. DTLi 6 or DTLi 7 The ignition temperature ranges from 13.6 keV to 66 keV, significantly lower than that of pB. 11 pB when directly ignited by laser 11 The ignition temperature is 123 keV.

[0096] According to this utility model, Figure 8 and Figure 9 The novel target showcased is composed of a material that is solid at room temperature. DTLi 6 DTLi 7 DLi 6 and pB 11 Any and all of these materials are solid at room temperature. According to this invention, these novel targets do not require cooling to cryogenic temperatures to solidify DT. Furthermore, these materials are significantly less expensive and more efficient than DT. Therefore, in one embodiment, using this novel target significantly reduces the cost of the target compared to a DT target costing $500,000.

[0097] As shown in the figure above, the technology remains unchanged when any type of material is inserted between each molten material region or between molten material regions and / or ablation material, but some modifications will be made.

[0098] As illustrated in the figures above, any and all timing sequences between picosecond or femtosecond laser source irradiation and nanosecond pulsed laser source irradiation are as follows: with pulse widths from 1 ns to 40 ns and 1 × 10⁻⁶ pulses... 13 W / cm² to 1 × 10 18 A nanosecond pulse with a total peak power density of W / cm² is applied to a target, which is then compressed by at least 100 to 20,000 times through laser ablation. Simultaneously, a picosecond or femtosecond laser source outputs a tapered groove on the target with a total peak power density of 1 × 10⁻⁶ W / cm². 17 W / cm² to 1 × 10 24 Picosecond or femtosecond pulses at W / cm².

[0099] According to this invention, we employ a shell composed of fusion fuel and ablation material, and provide an external laser entrance port on the shell, such as... Figure 3As shown. The target can be any common target used in inertial confinement fusion, whether indirectly or directly irradiated. As an initial target shape, any target with a hollow structure at its center is suitable for our invention. More preferably, we use a target made of DTLi 6 or DTLi 7 DLi 6 DLi 7 and pB 11 These targets are multi-layered structures composed of various materials. During use, external laser light can be introduced into the gaps through laser entrance holes on the casing. Alternatively, a conical target made of a high atomic number material or its compounds (such as gold, lead, and titanium) can be attached. Figure 10 As shown, this is to protect the laser injection from interference from the implosion plasma.

[0100] exist Figure 10 In the technique shown, a heated laser is introduced into the void inside the fuel target during the implosion process through a laser injection port on the target provided by an external source. The timing of the heated laser injection coincides with the point at which the maximum or near-maximum implosion velocity still exists in the central void during the implosion acceleration phase.

[0101] By introducing an externally heated laser into the void at this critical moment, the inner surface of the shell is heated and ablated towards the center of the void during the implosion. The ejected plasma collides in the central region, forming a high-temperature thermal spark. From this point, the implosion deceleration phase begins. The laser energy provided from the external source is transferred through the kinetic energy of the ablated plasma, ultimately becoming the internal energy of the high-temperature thermal spark. Therefore, this method can effectively transfer the energy required for the formation of the thermal spark necessary for nuclear fusion ignition from an external source to the thermal spark. This is a unique feature not found in traditional center ignition or rapid ignition methods.

[0102] Because of this efficient external energy transfer from the outside to the hot spark, a smaller total laser energy can be used to generate the hot spark compared to central ignition or rapid ignition methods. This allows for nuclear fusion ignition and combustion with lower laser energy requirements. This technique is known as internal irradiation.

[0103] Furthermore, the internal irradiation method addresses one of the most significant challenges in inertial confinement fusion: suppressing thermal spark formation instabilities caused by Rayleigh-Taylor instabilities during the implosion deceleration phase. In this phase, the centrally formed thermal spark slows the implosion motion of the surrounding implosion fuel. Under these conditions, Rayleigh-Taylor instabilities can occur at the interface between the thermal spark and the surrounding implosion fuel, i.e., the main fuel layer.

[0104] Furthermore, the heating laser used in this technology does not require the ultra-high intensity laser pulses of femtosecond (fs) or sub-10-picosecond (ps) pulses commonly used in conventional fast ignition techniques. Instead, we can utilize relatively long pulses, approximately 100 picoseconds (ps), which is given by dividing the radius of the void by the ablation rate of the inner surface of the heated shell. Conventional fast ignition requires heating within a time range determined by the inertia of the high-density plasma until it collapses. In contrast, in our method, it is sufficient to introduce a heating laser internally while the void exists, and the duration of the void's existence can be extended to the level of several hundred picoseconds by controlling the implosion. Pulses of approximately 100 ps can be generated using conventional nanosecond laser techniques without the need for ultra-high intensity laser techniques such as CPA (chirped pulse amplification).

[0105] Figure 10 An embodiment of this invention using a novel target and internal irradiation method is illustrated. The target has a relatively large gap in the central region, the size of which is determined by the picosecond pulse width. When the picosecond pulse width is small, the gap size is small. Most of the inner layer fuel is D(deuterium)T(tritium)Li. 6 or DTLi 7 As the primary fuel. Around DTLi 6 or DTLi 7 First fuel, second fuel DLi 6 Then there's the third fuel, pB. 11 The outermost material is an ablation material, which is not shown in the figure. Alternatively, pB 11 It can serve as an ablation material without requiring a separate ablation layer. A conical groove and a metal cone are formed on the target. The tip of the metal cone is located at DTLi. 6 or DTLi 7 Near or inside the primary fuel material. It has a pulse width of 1 ns to 40 ns and a 1 × 10⁻⁶ pulse density. 13 W / cm² to 1 × 10 18 A nanosecond pulse with a total pulse power density of W / cm² is applied to the target, which is then compressed by at least 100 to 20,000 times through laser ablation.

[0106] The picosecond laser source outputs picosecond pulses focused onto a conical groove on a target, with a total peak pulse energy of 100 kJ to 1 MJ and a pulse width of 50 ps to 900 ps. The picosecond laser source is focused onto a small laser spot on the cone, with a spot size ranging from 5 micrometers to 50 micrometers. The target diameter is 1 mm to 9 mm, and it is spherical or cylindrical. Therefore, the size of the conical groove or metal cone is almost the same as or slightly larger than the laser spot size. The high-intensity picosecond laser source enters the DTLi directly through the metal cone, groove, and gap. 6or DTLi 7 The inner wall of the DTLi was directly and effectively irradiated and ignited. 6 or DTLi 7 It has a low ignition temperature between 13.6 keV and 66 keV, such as Figure 2 As mentioned above. Subsequently, DTLi was ignited at temperatures ranging from 13.6 keV to 66 keV. 6 or DTLi 7 It will produce high-energy charged particles and high-energy neutrons as plasma.

[0107] Next, by DTLi 6 or DTLi 7 The high-energy charged particles and high-energy neutrons produced by ignition were used to ignite the surrounding DTLi at an ignition temperature of 66 keV. 6 or DTLi 7 Second fuel DLi 6 Then, these were made by DLi 6 The high-energy charged particles, neutrons, and other particles produced by the ignition reaction were used to ignite the surrounding DLi at an ignition temperature of 123 keV. 6 The third fuel pB 11 As shown in the figure above.

[0108] Then, through pB 11 In the ignition reaction, p effectively collides with high-energy neutrons, and momentum energy is transferred from the high-energy neutrons to the protons. Then, using the novel target of this invention, neutron production is minimized. By using this invention, the ignition temperature can be as low as 13.6 keV to 66 keV, and neutron production is minimized. DTLi 6 or DTLi 7 The ignition temperature ranges from 13.6 keV to 66 keV, significantly lower than that of pB. 11 pB when directly ignited by laser 11 The ignition temperature is 123 keV.

[0109] In one embodiment, Figure 10 The novel target is composed of a material that is solid at room temperature. DTLi 6 DTLi 7 DLi 6 and pB 11 All of these materials are solid at room temperature. This new type of target does not require cooling to cryogenic temperatures to solidify DT. Furthermore, these materials are significantly less expensive than DT. Therefore, using this new type of target, in one embodiment, the cost of the target is significantly reduced compared to a DT target costing $500,000.

[0110] When any type of material is inserted between the various fusion material regions or between fusion material regions and / or ablative materials... Figure 10 The above-mentioned technology does not change the scope of this utility model.

[0111] exist Figure 10 In the illustrated technique, the timing between picosecond laser source and nanosecond pulsed laser source irradiation indicates a pulse width of 1 ns to 40 ns and a pulse width of 1 × 10⁻⁶. 13 W / cm² to 1 × 10 18 A nanosecond pulse with a total peak power density of W / cm² is irradiated onto a target, which is then compressed by at least 100 to 20,000 times through laser ablation. At the same time, a picosecond laser source outputs a picosecond pulse with a total peak energy of 100 kJ to 1 MJ focused onto a metal cone on the target, although variations are possible.

[0112] exist Figure 11 In one embodiment, the present invention provides a fusion fuel target device for inertial confinement fusion (ICF). The device has a first fuel material region characterized by having a first ignition temperature; and a second fuel material region coupled to the first fuel material region. The device has a third fuel material region configured such that the first fuel material region is sandwiched between the second and third fuel material regions. In one embodiment, the second fuel material region is located in the central region and its ignition temperature is higher than that of the first fuel material region. In one embodiment, the third fuel material region is the outer region and its ignition temperature is higher than that of the first fuel material region.

[0113] exist Figure 12 In one embodiment, the third fuel material region includes a conversion layer that, upon collision with neutrons produced during the fusion reaction, accepts the momentum energy of the neutrons and converts it into the kinetic energy of charged particles, causing the charged particles to escape outward from the central region. In one embodiment, the first fuel material region is configured to ignite before the second or third fuel material region. In one embodiment, the third fuel material region is characterized by simultaneously having a conversion agent and thermonuclear combustion. In one embodiment, the third fuel material region is surrounded by an ablative material used to absorb incident laser energy and ablate outward to drive an implosion. In one embodiment, the third fuel material region is characterized by simultaneously serving as a conversion agent and an ablative agent. In one embodiment, the first fuel material region comprises D(deuterium)T(tritium)Li(lithium). 6 or DTLi 7 At least one of them. In one embodiment, the second fuel material region includes DLi 6 (Deuterium-Lithium-6) or DLi 7At least one of (deuterium-lithium-7). In one embodiment, the third fuel material region includes (hydrogen)H, p (or H)B. 11 or pB 10 Or at least one of the particles with low atomic number.

[0114] exist Figure 11 In one embodiment, the device is subjected to multiple pulses with widths ranging from 1 ns to 40 ns and a total pulse power density of 1 × 10⁻⁶. 13 W / cm² to 1 × 10 20 Irradiation with nanosecond pulsed lasers at W / cm² compresses the device by at least 100 to 20,000 times while simultaneously initiating thermonuclear combustion in the first fuel material region.

[0115] In one embodiment, the device is characterized by thermonuclear combustion in the first fuel material region of the device being initiated by a picosecond or femtosecond laser from outside the device, the laser having a total peak power density of 1 × 10⁻⁶. 17 W / cm² to 1 × 10 24 W / cm², along with a pulse width ranging from 1 ns to 40 ns and a total pulse power density of 1 × 10⁻⁶ W / cm². 13 W / cm² to 1 × 10 18 A nanosecond pulsed laser with a power of W / cm² is applied to the device.

[0116] In one embodiment, the device has other variations. A conical groove is configured internally within the device. In one embodiment, the conical groove has a tip located near or within a first fuel material region. In one embodiment, the conical groove includes an outer surface coated with a high-Z-value metallic material, at least one of gold (Au), lead (Pb), and other suitable high-Z metallic materials. In one embodiment, a picosecond or femtosecond laser is irradiated through the conical groove configured within the device. In one embodiment, the picosecond laser is focused onto a laser spot of 5 to 50 micrometers in size on the groove configured on the device. In one embodiment, the device is spherical with a diameter of 1 to 10 millimeters.

[0117] In one embodiment, the device has a material different from any one of the first fuel material region, the second fuel material region, or the third fuel material region (collectively referred to as fuel material regions), the material being disposed between at least one pair of fuel material regions or between a fuel material region and an ablative material. In one embodiment, a void is formed in the central region of the second fuel material region.

[0118] In an alternative embodiment, the present invention provides a spherical target device for inertial fusion. The device has multiple multilayered fuel layers, with the outermost fuel layer being composed of pB...11 pB 10 or at least contains pB 11 or pB 10 The material composition.

[0119] In one embodiment, the multilayer fuel consists of two to three different layers of fuel material. The device also features a conical groove, the tip of which is located within the DTLi layer of one of the multiple multilayer fuels. 6 or DTLi 7 Near or inside a fuel layer or region. In one embodiment, one of a plurality of multilayer fuels comprises DTLi configured as a first ignition fuel material. 6 or DTLi 7 In one embodiment, the device is placed inside a cylindrical black cavity. In one embodiment, pB 11 pB 10 or at least contains pB 11 or pB 10 The material is coated on the outer surface of the black cavity. In one embodiment, the black cavity is irradiated by multiple nanosecond pulsed lasers with pulse widths of 1 ns to 40 ns and total pulse energies of 1 to 10 megajoules, which irradiate the surface of the internal region of the black cavity, thereby generating X-rays that pass through one or more of the opening windows of the black cavity, resulting in multiple X-rays irradiating the device to ignite it.

[0120] In one embodiment, Figure 11 This is a simplified diagram illustrating a target for inertial confinement fusion (ICF) according to one embodiment of the present invention. The target is characterized by a layered structure, wherein a first fuel material region with the lowest ignition temperature is DTLi throughout the entire fuel layer. 6 or DTLi 7 The fuel is sandwiched in a container with an ignition temperature higher than DTLi 6 or DTLi 7 And the second fuel material region DLi is 66 keV 6 and ignition temperature higher than DTLi 6 And the pB of the third fuel material region is 123 keV. 11 Between. DTLi 6 or DTLi 7 It has the ability to partially replace DLi with T. 6 or DLi 7 The chemical composition formed by D in DTLi, as long as DTLi is not exposed to laser light before irradiation. 6 or DTLi 7 It can exist as a solid material, T in DTLi 6 or DTLi 7The atomic number fraction is arbitrary. In this target structure, when the target is hit, the pulse width is between 1 ns and 40 ns and the total pulse power density is 1 × 10⁻⁶. 13 W / cm² to 1 × 10 20 W / cm 2 When nanosecond pulsed lasers (including variants) are compressed by at least 100 to 20,000 times (and higher), due to the DTLi in the first fuel material region... 6 or DTLi 7 With the lowest ignition temperature, it achieves the fusion ignition density and temperature through an implosion driven by a nanosecond pulsed laser, igniting the first fuel material layer, DTLi. 6 or DTLi 7 Thermonuclear combustion. This method is known as the center ignition method.

[0121] In one embodiment, Figure 12 This is a simplified diagram illustrating another target for inertial confinement fusion (ICF) according to one embodiment of the present invention. The target is characterized by a layered structure, wherein a first fuel material region with the lowest ignition temperature is DTLi throughout the fuel layer. 6 The fuel is sandwiched in a container with an ignition temperature higher than DTLi 6 And the DLi in the second fuel material region is 66keV. 6 and ignition temperature higher than DTLi 6 And the pB of the third fuel material region is 123 keV. 11 Between. DTLi 6 It has the ability to partially replace DLi with T. 6 The chemical composition formed by D in DTLi, as long as DTLi is not exposed to laser light before irradiation. 6 It can exist as a solid material, T in DTLi 6 The atomic ratio in the material is arbitrary. In this invention, in the second fuel material region DLi... 6 At the center, a shell-like void is formed to compress the target, thereby accelerating the plasma of each fuel into the central region with high kinetic energy. Subsequently, in the central region of the void, the plasma's kinetic energy is converted into internal energy to form a hot spot and subsequently ignite. In this target structure, when the target is irradiated by a pulse width of 1 ns to 40 ns, the total pulse power density is 1 × 10⁻⁶. 13 W / cm² to 1 × 10 20 When nanosecond pulsed lasers (including variants) with W / cm² are compressed by at least 100 to 20,000 times (and higher), due to the DTLi in the first fuel material region... 6With the lowest ignition temperature, it achieves the fusion ignition density and temperature through an implosion driven by a nanosecond pulsed laser, igniting the DTLi first fuel material layer. 6 Thermonuclear combustion. This method is called center ignition.

[0122] Figure 4 and Figure 5 The novel target of this technology shown is composed of a material that is solid at room temperature. DTLi 6 DTLi 7 DLi 6 and pB 11 All of these materials are solid at room temperature. The novel target using this technology does not require cooling to cryogenic temperatures to solidify DT. Furthermore, these materials are significantly less expensive than DT. Therefore, the novel target using this technology represents a significant reduction in cost compared to a DT target costing $500,000 in one embodiment.

[0123] In one embodiment, a picosecond laser source outputs a picosecond pulse focused onto a target device, which uses one or more deformable mirrors or cavity devices to configure wavefront laser power uniformity. In one embodiment, a nanosecond laser source and a picosecond laser source respectively emit multiple nanosecond pulses and multiple picosecond pulses, which are focused onto a target by one or more concave mirrors or lenses. In one embodiment, the emission wavelength, phase, or both of at least one nanosecond pulse laser source differs from the emission wavelength and phase of one or more other nanosecond pulse laser sources.

[0124] In one embodiment, the device has several variations. In one embodiment, the device is a solid, characterized by a central region, a second outer region, a third outer region, and a fourth outer region. Furthermore, the device has two fuel material regions. In one embodiment, the first fuel material region is composed of D(deuterium)T(tritium)Li. 6 (Lithium) or DTLi 7 Composition. In one embodiment, the second fuel material region is composed of pB 11 (Boron) or pB 10 Composition. In one embodiment, the device has three fuel material regions. In one embodiment, the first fuel material region is composed of D(deuterium)T(tritium)Li 6 (Lithium) or DTLi 7 Composition. In one embodiment, the second fuel material region is composed of DLi 6 or DLi 7 Composition. In one embodiment, the third fuel material region is composed of pB 11 or pB 10Composition. In one embodiment, another material different from any fuel material is inserted between each pair of fuel material regions or between any fuel material region and the ablative material surrounding the device.

[0125] In one embodiment, the device forms at least one conical groove or metal cone in the second fuel material region. In one embodiment, the tip of the conical groove or metal cone is located near or inside the first fuel material region. In one embodiment, the conical groove or metal cone is characterized by having more than one but fewer than 10. In one embodiment, the surface of the conical groove or metal cone is coated with a high Z-value metal selected from at least one of gold (Au), lead (Pb), and other high Z-value materials.

[0126] In one embodiment, at least one of the second or third fuel material regions contains borane B. x H y Or B 10 H 14 .

[0127] In one embodiment, the target device is subjected to a pulse with a pulse width of 1 ns to 40 ns and a total pulse power density of 1 × 10⁻⁶. 13 W / cm² to 1 × 10 18 The target device is irradiated with nanosecond pulses at W / cm², followed by laser ablation to compress the target device by at least 100 to 20,000 times. In one embodiment, the target device is irradiated with a picosecond or femtosecond laser source that outputs picosecond or femtosecond pulses focused on the target device, with a spot size of 5 to 50 micrometers and a total peak pulse power density of 1 × 10⁻⁶. 17 W / cm² to 1 × 10 24 W / cm². In one embodiment, the target device is illuminated by a picosecond or femtosecond laser source, the picosecond or femtosecond pulses output by these sources being focused onto a conical groove or metal cone on the target device, with a total peak pulse power density of 1 × 10⁻⁶ W / cm². 17 W / cm² to 1 × 10 24 W / cm². In one embodiment, the picosecond laser source is focused into a small spot of 5 to 50 micrometers on a conical groove or metal cone. In one embodiment, the pulse width is 1 to 40 ns and the total pulse power density is 1 × 10⁻⁶ W / cm². 13 W / cm² to 1 × 10 18 While a nanosecond pulse of W / cm² is irradiating the target device, a picosecond or femtosecond laser source outputs a picosecond or femtosecond pulse focused onto the target device or a conical groove on the target device.

[0128] In one embodiment, the target device has a diameter of 1 mm to 9 mm and is characterized by being spherical. In another embodiment, the target device is cylindrical.

[0129] In one embodiment, the device has a void region configured near the central region of the target device. In another embodiment, the device further includes a conical or cylindrical region configured to extend from the outer region through one or more fuel material regions to the void region, such that a picosecond pulsed laser with a pulse width of 50-500 picoseconds, a total pulse energy of 1 kJ-500 kJ, and a frequency of 1-20 Hz irradiates a portion of one or more fuel material regions through the conical or cylindrical region. In one embodiment, the outer region is irradiated by multiple nanosecond pulsed lasers characterized by pulse widths of 1 ns to 40 ns and total pulse energies of 1-20 MJ to induce compression and implosion in at least one fuel material region. In one embodiment, the void region is characterized by a thermal spark in the central region. In another embodiment, the picosecond pulsed laser is configured to irradiate into the void region and ablate one of the inner surfaces during the compression and implosion of the outer region toward the central region in flight, causing the ablated plasma to collide and form a thermal spark in the central region. In one embodiment, after the thermal spark is formed, a deceleration phase begins, which allows the supplied laser energy to be converted into the energy of the thermal spark through the kinetic energy of the plasma ablated in the outer region during flight, thereby enabling the energy to be introduced into the thermal spark.

[0130] In one embodiment, the device further includes a picosecond pulsed laser disposed in a void region within the compressing device, wherein the picosecond pulsed laser is introduced at a point after the implosion velocity has reached its maximum or near maximum and before the final stage of compression acceleration, while the void region still exists in the central region. In one embodiment, the device further includes a picosecond pulsed laser characterized by a pulse width in the range of 50-500 picoseconds. In one embodiment, the device further includes a picosecond pulsed laser amplified using an optical enhancement cavity (OEC). In one embodiment, the picosecond pulsed laser is disposed from the housing region into the internal region.

[0131] In one embodiment, the device has a conical or cylindrical region containing a high atomic number material, including at least one of gold, lead, titanium, or composite materials, to avoid interference with the picosecond pulse laser path due to the expanding plasma generated by the implosion process.

[0132] In an alternative embodiment, the present invention provides a fusion fuel target device for inertial confinement fusion (ICF). The device has a first fuel material region characterized by a first ignition temperature, and a second fuel material region connected to the first fuel material region. Optionally, the device further has a third fuel material region configured such that the first fuel material region is sandwiched between the second and third fuel material regions. The second fuel material is located in the central region and has an ignition temperature higher than that of the first fuel material region. In one embodiment, the third fuel material region is an outer region and also has an ignition temperature higher than that of the first fuel material region.

[0133] In one embodiment, the third fuel material region includes a conversion layer that, upon collision with neutrons produced during the fusion reaction, accepts the momentum energy of the neutrons and converts it into the kinetic energy of charged particles, causing the charged particles to escape outward from the central region. In one embodiment, the first fuel material region is configured to ignite before the second or third fuel material region. In one embodiment, the third fuel material region simultaneously possesses the characteristics of a conversion agent and thermonuclear combustion. In one embodiment, the third fuel material region is surrounded by an ablative material used to absorb incident laser energy and ablate outward to drive an implosion. In one embodiment, the third fuel material region is characterized as both a conversion agent and an ablative agent.

[0134] In one embodiment, the first fuel material region includes D(deuterium)T(tritium) and DLi. 6 (Deuterium-Lithium-6) or DTLi 7 At least one of (deuterium-lithium-7). In one embodiment, the second fuel material region includes DLi. 6 (Deuterium-Lithium-6) or DLi 7 (Deuterium-Lithium-7). In one embodiment, the third fuel material region includes P (or H)B. 11 or pB 10 At least one of the following. In one embodiment, the third fuel material region includes (hydrogen)H, P (or H)-B. 11 or pB 10 Or at least one of the particles with low atomic number.

[0135] In one embodiment, the device is irradiated by multiple nanosecond pulsed lasers, the pulse widths of which range from 1 ns to 40 ns, and the total pulse power density is 1 × 10⁻⁶. 13 W / cm² to 1 × 10 20W / cm², thereby compressing the device by at least 100 to 20,000 times while initiating thermonuclear combustion in the first fuel material region. In one embodiment, the device is characterized by a pulse width of 1 ns to 40 ns and a total pulse power density of 1 × 10⁻⁶ W / cm². 13 W / cm² to 1 × 10 18 Simultaneously, a nanosecond pulsed laser at W / cm² irradiates the device, while the thermonuclear combustion of the first fuel material region is generated by a total peak laser power density of 1 × 10⁻⁶ W / cm² on the device. 17 W / cm² to 1 × 10 24 Picosecond or femtosecond lasers with W / cm² trigger the process.

[0136] In one embodiment, the device further includes a conical groove or metal cone disposed within the device. In one embodiment, the tip of the conical groove or metal cone is located near or within the first fuel material region. In one embodiment, the conical groove or metal cone includes an outer surface coated with a high-Z-value metallic material, the metallic material being at least one of gold (Au), lead (Pb), and other suitable high-Z metallic materials. In one embodiment, a picosecond or femtosecond laser is irradiated through the conical groove disposed within the device. In one embodiment, the picosecond laser is focused onto a laser spot of 5 to 50 micrometers in size on the conical groove or metal cone disposed on the device.

[0137] In one embodiment, the device is configured with a void region near its central region. A conical or cylindrical region is configured to extend from the outer housing region through one or more fuel material regions into the void region, such that a picosecond pulse laser with a pulse width of 50 to 500 picoseconds, a total pulse energy of 1 kJ to 500 kJ, and a frequency of 1 to 20 Hz can irradiate a portion of one or more fuel material regions through the conical or cylindrical region.

[0138] In one embodiment, the device is characterized by being spherical with a diameter of 1 mm to 10 mm. In another embodiment, the device further includes a material different from any one of the first fuel material region, the second fuel material region, or the third fuel material region (collectively referred to as fuel material regions), which is disposed between at least one pair of fuel material regions, or between any fuel material region and an ablative material.

[0139] The technology shown in the above figures, when any kind of material is inserted between the fusion material regions or between the fusion material region and the ablation material, should be considered as part of this invention, because these inserted materials do not change the concept of this invention.

[0140] According to the technology illustrated above, the timing between picosecond or femtosecond laser source irradiation and nanosecond pulsed laser source irradiation is such that, with a pulse width of 1 ns to 40 ns and a pulse size of 1 × 10⁻⁶, the laser pulses are... 13 W / cm² to 1 × 10 18 A nanosecond pulse with a total pulse power density of W / cm² is applied to a target, which is then compressed by at least 100 to 20,000 times through laser ablation. Simultaneously, a picosecond or femtosecond laser source outputs a focused peak pulse with a total peak power density of 1 × 10⁻⁶ W / cm² onto the target. 20 W / cm² to 1 × 10 24 Picosecond or femtosecond pulses with metal cones and conical grooves at W / cm².

[0141] In this technology, a picosecond pulsed laser source refers to a laser source with a pulse width between 1 picosecond and 900 picoseconds. A nanosecond pulsed laser source refers to a laser source with a pulse width between 1 nanosecond and 40 nanoseconds. A femtosecond pulsed laser source refers to a laser source with a pulse width between 10 femtoseconds and 1000 femtoseconds. The wavelength range of nanosecond, picosecond, and femtosecond laser sources is from ultraviolet light (350 nm) to infrared light (1060 nm).

[0142] In one embodiment, the device is a solid, characterized by a first fuel material region, a second fuel material region, and a third fuel material region. In one embodiment, the target device is solid at room temperature. In one embodiment, HLi has a melting temperature of 692°C. DLi and DTLi have similar melting temperatures. Used as pB 11 B 10 H 14 The melting temperature of borane is 100°C. In one embodiment, the borane is coated with a polymer to prevent toxic substances from evaporating from the borane. In one embodiment, depending on the material type, the polymer's melting temperature ranges from 50 to 100°C. Therefore, in one embodiment, solid-state means that the target should be solid-state at least within a temperature range of 10 to 50°C.

[0143] Of course, other variations, alternatives, and modifications are possible.

[0144] While the foregoing is a complete description of specific embodiments, various modifications, alternative structures, and equivalents may be used. In one embodiment, a high-intensity laser forms a resonator between a pair of mirror devices through constructed interference between each laser beam to ignite fuel particles. In one embodiment, a first path of a high-intensity pulsed laser is provided in a resonator device. In one embodiment, the present invention provides a system and method for generating concentric or spherical resonators within a reaction region to focus laser light at the center of the reactor. Furthermore, the terms “first,” “second,” “third,” and “final” do not imply the order of one or more embodiments of the present invention. In other embodiments, various numerical limits may be unrestricted in some embodiments. Moreover, the present target may also be used for other applications. Therefore, the foregoing description and illustration should not be considered as limiting the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A fusion fuel target device, characterized by, The fusion fuel target device comprises: a first fuel material region having a first ignition temperature; a second fuel material region coupled with the first fuel material region; a third fuel material region configured such that the first fuel material region is sandwiched between the second fuel material region and the third fuel material region, wherein the second fuel material region is a central region and has a higher ignition temperature than the first fuel material region, and the third fuel material region is an outer layer region and has a higher ignition temperature than the first fuel material region.

2. The fusion fuel target device of claim 1, wherein, The third fuel material region is characterized by simultaneously serving as a converter and a thermonuclear burning agent.

3. The fusion fuel target device of claim 1, wherein, The third fuel material region is surrounded by an ablation material that functions to absorb incident laser energy and ablate outwardly to drive implosion.

4. The fusion fuel target device of claim 1, wherein, The third fuel material region is characterized by simultaneously serving as a converter and an ablation agent.

5. The fusion fuel target device of claim 1, wherein, The device further comprises a conical groove configured inside the device.

6. The fusion fuel target device of claim 5, wherein, The tip of the conical groove is located near or inside the first fuel material region.

7. The fusion fuel target device of claim 5, wherein The conical groove comprises an outer surface coated with a high-Z metal material.

8. The fusion fuel target device of claim 1, wherein, The device is spherical in shape with a diameter of 1-10 mm.

9. The fusion fuel target device of claim 1, wherein, The device further comprises a material different from any of the first fuel material region, the second fuel material region, or the third fuel material region, which is configured between at least one pair of fuel material regions, or between any one of the fuel material regions and an ablation material.

10. The fusion fuel target device of claim 1, wherein, A void is formed in the central region of the second fuel material region.

11. The fusion fuel target device of claim 1, wherein, The device is characterized by being in a solid state.

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