Neutron imaging of inertial confinement fusion targets at Nova

Abstract

Images of the neutron-emitting region of high-yield inertial confinement fusion targets have been obtained with a penumbral coded-aperture imaging system. The major components of the imaging system are the penumbral aperture, neutron detector, alignment hardware, and image reconstruction software. We describe these components and present an example of the neutron imaging results.

Imaging of Radiation Accidents and Radioactive Contamination Using Scintillators

“…For this reason, neutron diagnostics is an indispensable tool for both inertial confinement fusion (ICF) and magnetic confinement fusion research (Cheon et al, 2008;Glebov et al, 2006;K.A. Tanaka et al, 2004;Lerche et al, 1995;Petrizzi et al, 2007;Ress et al, 1988). In particular, the observation of scattered neutrons from the high-density imploded deuterium plasma in laser fusion experiments is desired (Izumi et al, 2003).…”

Summary of the first neutron image data collected at the National Ignition Facility

“…Neutron imaging of inertial confinement fusion implosions is a well established diagnostic technique [1][2][3][4][5]. The diagnostic principle is based on aperture imaging methods regularly used in optics.…”

Heuristic optimization in penumbral image for high resolution reconstructed image

“…1 Since such an aperture can be "drilled" through a substrate of almost any thickness, the technique can be easily applied to highly penetrating radiation such as neutrons [2][3][4] and other rays. In particular, neutron imaging is a key technique in laser fusion experiments because the neutron images can provide direct information about the burn region.…”