The field of fusion energy is transitioning from research to practical engineering in the pursuit of more sustainable energy production. For decades, fusion energy has been thought of as a cleaner and carbon-free power source. It also promises an almost limitless supply of power without the long-lived radioactive waste associated with fission reactors. Recent advancements in high-power pump laser diodes are not just a step but a leap forward in making that a reality.
Scientists at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) achieved "net target gain," or a controlled fusion reaction producing more energy than was supplied to initiate. While sparking interest in fusion energy, it showed the fundamental physics of laser-driven inertial fusion energy (LD-IFE) can be understood. Worldwide, many companies are also working to commercialize fusion energy technologies and reactors, based on this discovery.
LD-IFE is focused on the precision and power of laser technology. This approach achieves the extreme conditions necessary for fusion by focusing an array of laser diodes on a minuscule pellet of fusion fuel. The lasers rapidly heat the pellet, causing its outer layer to explode and drive the remaining material inward, compressing it to a point where nuclear fusion occurs.
LD-IFE’s reliance on laser technology presents a more direct path to achieving fusion. Using laser diodes, LD-IFE can significantly reduce costs and improve efficiencies. Modern high-power laser diodes have seen advancements in their electrical-to-optical efficiency and output power without compromising the beam quality. This is crucial for applications that require intense, focused light like in LD-IFE systems.
However, the path to perfecting LD-IFE is not without its challenges. Companies must make improvements to standardize this method such as developing appropriate target injection, mitigating optics damage, and more.
As we continue to refine the laser diode technology that makes LD-IFE possible, we get closer to a world powered by the same clean, limitless energy. Fusion energy promises abundant, carbon-free energy, looking towards a sustainable future.
Read our full article in Photonics Spectra to learn more about how our laser diodes are advancing the fusion energy industry.