Quantifying low-mode shell asymmetry as a means to predict ICF implosion performance on the NIF

ORAL

Abstract

Low mode fuel and ablator asymmetries are a significant degradation mechanism in NIF indirect drive ICF implosions. These asymmetries are forced by radiation drive asymmetry stemming from asymmetric hohlraum wall illumination. We develop an ensemble of two, three, and four-shock high-density-carbon ablator simulations with varying drive asymmetries and convergence ratios.~We use this ensemble to relate the shell properties prior to its peak implosion velocity to the overall implosion performance and extend this technique to analyze NIF in-flight radiograph (convergent ablator) experimental data.

Authors

  • Ryan Nora

    Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory

  • Brian Spears

    Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Lawrence Livermore Natl Lab

  • R. Tommasini

    Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, LLNL

  • Luc Peterson

    Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Lawrence Livermore Natl Lab

  • John Field

    Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Lawrence Livermore Natl Lab

  • Paul Springer

    Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, LLNL

  • J. Gaffney

    Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, LLNL

  • Jim Hammer

    Lawrence Livermore Natl Lab, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, LLNL

  • A.L. Kritcher

    Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, LLNL