Toward a physics design for NDCX-II, a next-step platform for ion beam-driven physics studies
- Author(s): Friedman, A.
- Grote, D.P.
- Sharp, W.M.
- Henestroza, E.
- Leitner, M.
- Logan, B.G.
- Waldron, W.L.
- et al.
Abstract
The Heavy Ion Fusion Science Virtual National Laboratory, a collaboration of LBNL, LLNL, and PPPL, is studying Warm Dense Matter physics driven by ion beams, and basic target physics for heavy ion-driven Inertial Fusion Energy. A low-cost path toward the next-step facility for this research, NDCX-II, has been enabled by the recent donation of induction cells and associated hardware from the decommissioned Advanced Test Accelerator (ATA) facility at LLNL. We are using a combination of analysis, an interactive one-dimensional kinetic simulation model, and multidimensional Warp-code simulations to develop a physics design concept for the NDCX-II accelerator section. A 30-nC pulse of singly charged Li ions is accelerated to ~;3 MeV, compressed from ~;500 ns to ~;1 ns, and focused to a sub-mm spot. We present the novel strategy underlying the acceleration schedule and illustrate the space-charge-dominated beam dynamics graphically.