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Fusion reactions initiated by laser-accelerated particle beams in a laser-produced plasma

Author

Listed:
  • C. Labaune

    (LULI, Ecole Polytechnique, CNRS, CEA, UPMC)

  • C. Baccou

    (LULI, Ecole Polytechnique, CNRS, CEA, UPMC)

  • S. Depierreux

    (CEA, DAM, DIF)

  • C. Goyon

    (CEA, DAM, DIF)

  • G. Loisel

    (LULI, Ecole Polytechnique, CNRS, CEA, UPMC)

  • V. Yahia

    (LULI, Ecole Polytechnique, CNRS, CEA, UPMC)

  • J. Rafelski

    (The University of Arizona)

Abstract

The advent of high-intensity-pulsed laser technology enables the generation of extreme states of matter under conditions that are far from thermal equilibrium. This in turn could enable different approaches to generating energy from nuclear fusion. Relaxing the equilibrium requirement could widen the range of isotopes used in fusion fuels permitting cleaner and less hazardous reactions that do not produce high-energy neutrons. Here we propose and implement a means to drive fusion reactions between protons and boron-11 nuclei by colliding a laser-accelerated proton beam with a laser-generated boron plasma. We report proton-boron reaction rates that are orders of magnitude higher than those reported previously. Beyond fusion, our approach demonstrates a new means for exploring low-energy nuclear reactions such as those that occur in astrophysical plasmas and related environments.

Suggested Citation

  • C. Labaune & C. Baccou & S. Depierreux & C. Goyon & G. Loisel & V. Yahia & J. Rafelski, 2013. "Fusion reactions initiated by laser-accelerated particle beams in a laser-produced plasma," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 4(1), pages 1-6, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:4:y:2013:i:1:d:10.1038_ncomms3506
    DOI: 10.1038/ncomms3506
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