Interim Report—Status of the Study "An Assessment of the Prospects for Inertial Fusion Energy"

The scientific and technological progress in inertial confinement fusion has been substantial during the past decade. However, many of the technologies needed for an integrated inertial fusion energy system are still at an early stage of technological maturity. For all approaches to inertial fusion energy there remain critical scientific and engineering challenges. In this interim report of the study An Assessment of the Prospects for Inertial Fusion Energy, the Committee on the Prospects for Inertial Confinement Fusion Energy Systems outlines their preliminary conclusions and recommendations of the feasibility of inertial fusion energy. The committee also describes its anticipated next steps as it prepares its final report. Table of ContentsFront MatterInterim ReportAppendix A: The Basic Science of Inertial Fusion EnergyAppendix B: Statements of TaskAppendix C: Panel Membership and Staff for the Panel on the Assessment of Inertial Confinement Fusion (ICF) TargetsAppendix D: Agendas from Committee Meetings and Site VisitsAppendix E: Bibliography of Previous Inertial Confinement Fusion Studies Consulted by the CommitteeAppendix F: Agendas from Meetings of the Panel on the Assessment of Inertial Confinement Fusion (ICF) TargetsAppendix G: Glossary of Terms and Acronyms Used in This Report