Fusion Electra: A Krypton Fluoride Laser for Fusion Energy
Abstract
Electra is a Krypton Fluoride (KrF) laser to develop the science and technology for Inertial Fusion Energy. The objective is to develop the technologies that can meet the IFE requirements for beam quality, durability, and efficiency. Electra will use double-sided electron-beam pumping, run at 5 Hz, and have a laser output of 400-700 Joules. We will focus on technologies that can be scalable to the 50-150 kJ energy needed for a full-size fusion power plant beam line and are projected to meet the economic requirements for fusion power. Electra is a multifaceted, multi-disciplinary program that will perform the research needed to develop the individual laser components and then combine the components into an integrated system. These components are: the pulsed power system; the electron beam emitter; the pressure foil structure; the recirculator to cool and quiet the laser gas; and long life optical windows. We have built a first generation pulsed power system which runs continuously in 100,000 shot runs at 5 Hz at full energy. This five-hour run is more than adequate to start developing the laser components. To date we have evaluated a large number of cathode materials, have developed a first generation hibachi design, performed experiments and modeling of electron beam transport and stability, developed models for the electron beam deposition and KrF kinetics, started component development for an advanced pulsed power system, and are developing long life optical coatings.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 2001
- Accession Number
- ADA480420
Entities
People
- Frank Hegeler
- J. L. Giuliani
- J. Sethian
- M. Myers
- Michael A. Friedman
- R. Lehmberg
- S. B. Swanekamp
- S. P. Obenschain
Organizations
- United States Naval Research Laboratory