Space Charge Neutralization and Plasma Compression in the Periodically Oscillating Plasma Sphere (POPS)
Author: Richard A. Nebel
Requested Type: Poster Only
Submitted: 2006-12-18 12:09:10
Co-authors: E.G.Evstatiev, L. Chacon, J. Park, G. Lapenta
Contact Info:
Los Alamos National Laboratory
M.S. T082
Los Alamos, NM 87545
USA
Abstract Text:
The inertial electrostatic confinement (IEC) device provides a
favorable development path for fusion applications. It is a compact
device that is easy to construct and operate. It is also
straightforward to accelerate the ions to fusion relevant
energy. Though the existing IEC device typically operates with
relatively low efficiency, there are several promising near-term
fusion applications such as nuclear assay. We will discuss about the
on-going LANL research efforts using IEC based neutron generators for
nuclear assay applications. Neutron yields of $sim $10$^{6}$
neutrons/s per kw input power have been demonstrated using D-D
fuels. An inductively coupled plasma source has been installed to
enhance the neutron yield. Separately, we will discuss about the
current status of periodically oscillating plasma sphere (POPS)
experiment. The POPS research is aimed at achieving fusion energy
production based on the novel plasma heating concept proposed by Nebel
and Barnes$^{1}$. POPS oscillation has been verified experimentally
and an electron beam probe is being developed in order to measure the
POPS compression and heating. 1. R. A. Nebel, D. C. Barnes, Fusion
Technology 38, 28 (1998).
Characterization: C
Comments:
