Feasibility of antiproton-boosted fission and inertial confinement fusion

Abstract

Antiproton-induced fission of uranium or plutonium has been proposed as a method to assist the driver of an inertial confinement fusion (ICF) pellet or as a spark initiator. In past studies with one-dimensional radiation-hydrodynamics codes, factors that have reduced predicted yields in past ICF experiments were neglected or not discussed. In order to validate the feasibility of this concept with higher confidence, a three-phase program has been initiated. The first phase is an investigation of the theoretical aspects of antiproton-initiated fission/ICF by using more competent 2D and/or 3D codes and extensive data libraries that were not available for past studies. Next, a technology development project will include the design and construction of systems for accumulating, storing, and transporting antiprotons. Finally, three proof-of-principle implosion experiments will be conducted at the Shiva Star facility. An overview of this program is given, including a discussion of the justification.<>