Systems and applications studies of inertial fusion

The objectives of systems and applications studies are to: (1) identify potential applications of ICF; (2) devise conceptual devices and systems that will ensure economic viability of these applications; (3) define the technology required for the realization of ICF systems; and (4) link research and technology developments to ensure compatibility and complementarity of these activities. We are investigating both laser and heavy-ion-beam drivers. The applications studied include electric power generation, fissile-fuel production, process heat generation, synthetic fuel production, and weapons-related research. The studies consist of conceptual designs of devices, construction of mathematical models to analyze their technical feasibility and performance characteristics, and development of costing algorithms and computer programs to investigate whether various ICF applications are economically competitive