Abstract
In inertial confinement fusion (ICF) implosions, the interface between the cryogenic DT fuel and the ablator is unstable to shock acceleration (the Richtmyer-Meshkov instability, RM) and constant acceleration (Rayleigh-Taylor instability, RT). Instability growth at this interface can reduce the final compression, limiting fusion burnup. If the constant acceleration is in the direction of the lighter material (negative Atwood number), the RT instability produces oscillatory motion that can stabilize against RM growth. Theory and simulations suggest this scenario occurred at early times in some ICF experiments on the National Ignition Facility, possibly explaining their favorable performance compared to one-dimensional simulations. This characteristic is being included in newer, lower adiabat designs, seeking to improve compression while minimizing ablator mixing into the fuel.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
