Spin polarized ICF targets

Abstract

Parallel spin polarization of D and T increases the fusion cross-section by 50%, which may lead to a reduction in the ICF driver energy requirement by a factor of about two. The non-isotropic emission of fusion products may help in prolonging the life of the sensitive parts of the ICF reactor system. After briefly explaining the basic principles responsible for these effects, the paper examines the feasibility of polarizing solid D-T targets. It is shown that this may be accomplished with the technology available at present, provided pure D-T is available. The spin polarized ICF target will not experience any noticeable depolarization during the compression and burn phases. This is shown on the example of the HIBALL target.