Research and Application of Pulsed-Power Technology

摘要

Pulsed-power technology relating to that branch which was stimulated by military applications in the 1960's is addressed. A history of the development and characteristics of some devices producing intense electron and ion beams which resulted in Sandia's particle beam fusion program is presented. These include Hermes II, Aurora, Hydra, and Proto II. Research on inertial confinement fusion ignition is described, and the most critical issue in ICF today still is the demonstration of ignition and efficient burnup of a small amount of thermonuclear fuel. Progress on the Sandia particle beam fusion accelerator (PBFA I and II) is reported, but already plans are underway to further upgrade the device and if these modifications are carried out in 1983, fusion ignition concepts may be tested by 1985. Fusion could possibly provide an inexhaustible supply of energy in the next century. (ERA citation 05:014570)