DUED code radiation-hydrodynamic studies in support of the Focused Energy Preconceptual Design of a Pilot Fusion Power Plant

Focused Energy is developing a Pre-Conceptual Design (PCD) of an (Inertial) Fusion Power Plant (FPP), in the frame of a DoE funded Public Private Partnership. The proposed FPP will use laser direct-drive and proton fast ignition. The definition of a set of laser and target parameters is a key element of the PCD, since it sets specifications on the design of laser and targets, and provides input to reactor engineering, too. Here we report on preliminary work, based on 1D and 2D DUED rad-hydro-nuclear simulations, addressing (under somewhat ideal conditions) all stages of the evolution, from laser irradiation to fusion burn, up to the computation of the spectra of the outcoming neutrons and X-rays. We discuss sensitivity to model assumptions and needs for experimental investigation of a few crucial issues.