The Search for Solid State Fusion Lasers

Marvin J. Weber

doi:10.1117/12.981473

1 December 1989 The Search for Solid State Fusion Lasers

Marvin J. Weber

Proceedings Volume 1182, French-Israeli Workshop on Solid State Lasers; (1989) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.981473
Event: French-Israeli Workshop on Solid-State Lasers, 1989, Jerusalem, Israel

Abstract

Inertial confinement fusion (ICF) research puts severe demands on the laser driver. In recent years large, multibeam Nd:glass lasers have provided a flexible experimental tool for exploring fusion target physics because of their high powers, variable pulse length and shape, wavelength flexibility using harmonic generation, and adjustable focus. Advances in solid-state laser technology indicate that (1) Nd:glass lasers can be scaled up to provide a single-pulse, multi-megajoule, high-gain laboratory microfusion facility, and (2) gas-cooled slab amplifiers with laser diode pump sources are viable candidates for an efficient, high repetition rate, megawatt driver for an ICF reactor. In both applications, requirements for energy storage and energy extraction drastically limit the choice of lasing media. Nonlinear optical effects and optical damage are additional design constraints. New laser architectures applicable to ICF drivers and possible laser materials, both crystals and glasses, are surveyed.

Citation Download Citation

Marvin J. Weber "The Search for Solid State Fusion Lasers", Proc. SPIE 1182, French-Israeli Workshop on Solid State Lasers, (1 December 1989); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.981473

ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE

INSTITUTIONAL
Select your institution to access the SPIE Digital Library.

SELECT YOUR INSTITUTION

PERSONAL
Sign in with your SPIE account to access your personal subscriptions or to use specific features such as save to my library, sign up for alerts, save searches, etc.

PERSONAL SIGN IN

No SPIE Account? Create one

PURCHASE THIS CONTENT

SUBSCRIBE TO DIGITAL LIBRARY

50 downloads per 1-year subscription

Members: $195

Non-members: $335 ADD TO CART

25 downloads per 1 - year subscription

Members: $145

Non-members: $250 ADD TO CART

PURCHASE SINGLE ARTICLE

Includes PDF, HTML & Video, when available