The Key Number: 3.88 megajoules.
In December, an experiment generated a significant amount of attention for producing approximately three megajoules of energy. This amount is equivalent to about 1.5 pounds of TNT or 1.5 times the energy of the incoming lasers. What made this experiment even more remarkable was that it was the first time a fusion reaction in a laboratory setting produced more energy than it took to initiate the reaction.
A similar experiment was conducted in July, and researchers anticipated a similar yield of around three megajoules. However, the actual output turned out to be 3.88 megajoules, exceeding expectations. This higher-than-predicted result suggests that with some adjustments, laser fusion can become significantly more efficient. However, it is worth noting that even slight variations can result in fusion failures.
Another experiment in June produced lower energy outputs than anticipated, generating only between 1.6 and 1.7 megajoules. Dr. Town, one of the researchers, mentioned that a recent attempt this month yielded slightly more than two megajoules, achieving parity with the laser energy. Dr. Town expressed surprise that ignition was not achieved in all attempts.
Why It Matters: Much more to learn.
Analyzing the results, Livermore scientists have gained a better understanding of the underlying factors. One key observation is that the 192 lasers used in the experiment are not flawless and exhibit slight variations with each shot. This imbalance can affect the compression of the hydrogen fuel capsule, leading to energy loss and insufficient heating of the hydrogen.
Additionally, there are slight variations in the fuel capsules themselves, which impact fusion reactions. Computer simulations indicate a wide range of potential output energies, ranging from as low as 1.4 megajoules to as high as seven megajoules if all conditions align perfectly.
What Happens Next: Upgrading and optimizing the experiment.
Siegfried Glenzer, a scientist at the SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, praised the recent advances and emphasized that the current implosions are not yet fully optimized. A new series of experiments is set to begin at the National Ignition Facility, aiming to achieve higher and more consistent fusion yields. The facility’s lasers are being upgraded from 2.05 to 2.2 megajoules, with further improvements expected as additional energy is coupled effectively with the hot spot via a “bigger hammer,” as described by Dr. Town.
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