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Hydrodynamic models and schemes for fast ignition

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  01 April 1999

S. HAIN
Affiliation:
Theoretical Quantum Electronics (TQE), Institut für Angewandte Physik, Technische Universität Darmstadt, Hochschulstr. 4A, 64289 Darmstadt, Germany
P. MULSER
Affiliation:
Theoretical Quantum Electronics (TQE), Institut für Angewandte Physik, Technische Universität Darmstadt, Hochschulstr. 4A, 64289 Darmstadt, Germany
F. CORNOLTI
Affiliation:
Dipartimento di Fisica, Università di Pisa, and INFM, udr di Pisa, Piazza Torricelli 2, 56100 Pisa, Italy
H. OPOWER
Affiliation:
Institut für Technische Physik, Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt (DLR), Pfaffenwaldring 38-40, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany

Abstract

In this paper, we want to discuss different hydrodynamic schemes for fast ignition and some of their basic effects. Relativistic hydrodynamics and a covariant generalized Ohm's law are presented. Matter perforation (hole boring) by an intense laser pulse is investigated by 2D numerical simulations and a simple formula for the perforation speed is derived. Furthermore, we study macroparticle acceleration by an intense laser beam and the possibility to provide an energetic and massive projectile for ballistic ignition. The dynamics of ignition of a precompressed D–T mixture is illustrated by numerical simulations in planar 2D geometry using direct laser irradiation and macroparticle impact as external drivers. Electron heat conduction is found to be responsible for an efficient burn wave propagation which prevents the hot gas bubble of burning fuel from deflagrating into vacuum.

Type
Research Article
Copyright
© 1999 Cambridge University Press

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