Acoustically driven spherical implosions and the possibility of thermonuclear reactions

Abstract

Acoustically driven, gas-filled cavities in liquids have been known to collapse violently, generating short flashes of light of ∼100-ps duration. More recently, the possibility of generating fusion reactions using acoustics (acoustic inertial confinement fusion) has been considered. Results of computer simulations using the HYADES hydrocode (Cascade Applied Sciences, Inc) plus the SESAME equations of state for free collapsing and acoustically driven cavities in molten metals will be presented as well as experimental data at high ambient pressures in different liquids. Back-of-the-envelope calculations in terms of the acoustical and thermodynamic parameters necessary to achieve thermonuclear reactions will be presented in an effort to evaluate the feasibility of acoustic ICF as an energy source.