First Light Fusion is researching ICF with novel target designs utilising strong shocks driven by hyper-velocity projectiles and EM launchers. Proprietary target designs are being developed and understood using our in-house front tracking hydrodynamics code Hytrac. Experiments designed to deliver proof-of-concept and numerical benchmarking data are being conducted and generate conditions opaque to probing with optical light.
X-ray radiography of the dynamic density structures occurring during target impacts has been achieved by coupling an X-pinch X-ray source to the FLF two stage light gas-gun launcher (2SLGG).
This is the first time dynamic radiography has been done on a gas-gun using an X-pinch and is already providing valuable experimental shock density information.