Generalized Lawson Criterion for Proton-Boron Fusion Burn Driven by Short Pulse Lasers

The Lawson criterion for p-B11 is substantially higher than that for D-T and bremsstrahlung radiation losses can dominate over fusion reactions. We present a generalized Lawson criteria for p-B11 using the latest cross section data and looking to limit radiation losses. Our hybrid burn scenario uses CPA-accelerated protons to add an energetic population to the distribution function and undergo beam fusion reactions that provide fast alpha particles that heat the fuel and up-scatter protons. We use HELIOS-CR and PROPACEOS to study the fusion burn space in a fluid approximation. We also are using the kinetic algorithms in Chicago to track the proton distribution function across the broad energy range encompassed by the bulk thermonuclear component from below and the slowing-down, beam-fusion component from above. We will report on the possibility of ignition and burn in these fast ignition-like configurations, accounting for the power balance between heating, thermonuclear and inflight fusion reactions, charged particle deposition, bremsstrahlung, thermal conduction, and hydrodynamic expansion. We will use models that include the effects of density and temperature on the interaction of charged particles in the plasma, including both slowing down and up scattering terms.