Design options to improve MagLIF performance on the Z facility and beyond

Magnetized liner inertial fusion (MagLIF) is a magneto-inertial fusion (MIF) concept that utilizes fuel magnetization and preheat to relax the requirements to reach fusion conditions in magnetically driven implosions. With the MagLIF concept, we have demonstrated fusion-relevant ion temperatures, magnetic trapping of charged fusion products at stagnation, and significant thermonuclear fusion yields. We have also investigated conservative scaling paths to extrapolate from performance on the 20-MA Z facility to high yield on a 65-MA future facility.



We have recently begun exploring paths to maximize performance at the 30-MA scale, which may be achievable through an upgrade to the Z facility. A key change to the MagLIF target design is shifting from a beryllium tube to a composite target, consisting of a low-density, thick outer shell that reduces feedthrough of instabilities and a high-density, thin layer that enhances inertial confinement. Additionally, we include a cryogenic fuel layer on the inner surface of the target to reduce mix concerns and increase fuel inventory. Finally, we are investigating using several-MA of current driven through an ice fiber as a mechanism to reach ~10 kJ of preheat in the fuel. This talk will discuss the potential that these new design options could unlock for the MagLIF concept.