D–D nuclear fusion induced by laser-generated plasma at 1016 W cm−2 intensity

Abstract

Deuterated polyethylene targets (CD2-monomer), as thin and thick films, were laser irradiated in a vacuum at 1016 W cm−2 intensity. The produced plasma was monitored in situ using the Thomson parabola spectrometer, ion collectors and SiC semiconductor detectors. For thin targets irradiated under target-normal-sheath-acceleration conditions, laser accelerated deuterons with energies higher than 3.0 MeV were measured along the normal to the target surface. Characteristic emissions at 3.0 and 2.5 MeV for protons and neutrons, respectively, have been detected confirming the production of nuclear fusion events. The evidence of nuclear fusion effects was evaluated and discussed.