Atomic data for highly charged ions: Applications to X-ray laser design and thermonuclear fusion

Abstract

A detailed understanding of a myriad of atomic processes is proving important for the development of short wavelength lasers and to the achievement of controlled thermonuclear fusion. A brief overview of some X-ray laser design issues is presented along with a discussion of relevant atomic data needs. Special attention is given to the need for experimental verification of rate coefficient data which are important for determining laser kinetics. Approaches to magnetic and inertial confinement fusion are reviewed with emphasis on atomic processes affecting both fuel burn and plasma diagnostics. Recent advances in the development of high power ICF drivers, both lasers and particle beams, are shown to suggest new areas of research involving very highly charged ions in dense hot plasmas.