We show that a spatially well-defined layer of boron dopants in a hydrogen-enriched silicon target allows the production of a high yield of alpha particles of around 10 9 per steradian using a nanosecond, low-contrast laser pulse with a nominal intensity of approximately 3 × 10 16 W cm. This result can be ascribed to the nature of the long laser-pulse interaction with the target and with the expanding plasma, as well as to the optimal target geometry and composition. The possibility of an impact on future applications such as nuclear fusion without production of neutron-induced radioactivity and compact ion accelerators is anticipated.

Single-walled nanotubes (SWNTs) industrially produced and multiwalled nanotubes (MWNTs) we produced by catalysis were investigated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The observed spectral features, that is the peak position, intensity, and bandwidth, were related to some structural properties of the investigated samples. In such a way, information on the vibrational modes, nanotube diameters, and purity degree of the samples was obtained. The findings of the FTIR investigation are in perfect agreement with the TEM evidence.

The use of a low contrast nanosecond laser pulse with relatively low intensity (3 × 10 16 W cm -2 ) allowed enhancing the yield of induced nuclear reactions in advanced solid targets. In particular the "ultraclean" proton-boron fusion reaction, producing energetic alpha-particles without neutron generation, was chosen. A spatially well-defined layer of boron dopants in a hydrogenenriched silicon substrate was used as target. The combination of the specific target geometry and the laser pulse temporal shape allowed the production of an enormous yield of alpha-particles around 10 9 per steradian. This result can be ascribed to the nonlinear interaction of the long laser pulse with the expanding plasma and to the optimal target geometry and composition.

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have been shown to exhibit myriad chemical abilities. CNT materials are similar to activated carbon, but their regularized molecular structure has the potential for greater engineered control. An intriguing application is the removal and possible sequestration of radionuclides from nuclear plant waste streams. In this issue’s Viewpoint, researchers from three European research institutes overview the chemistry to date involving CNT materials interacting with radionuclides. In so doing, they sound a call to the environmental and materials research communities to further investigate the potential of functionalized CNTs and/or composites made from this novel substance.

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