ICF target ignition studies in planar, cylindrical, and spherical geometries

Abstract

A model for nonlocal α particle transport is implemented in a one-dimensional radiation hydrodynamics code and applied for typical directly and indirectly driven ICF target simulations. Ignition criteria are compared for four configurations; spherical, cylindrical, planar with a central hot spot, and another planar configuration with a hot spot on one side. This last planar configuration is then used for fast ignitor studies, since it is able to simulate hot spot formation by direct laser heating and free expansion towards the incoming beam. Ignition requirements as a function of laser intensity and pulse length, taking into account the relationship between intensity, hot electron temperature, and range, are then determined.