Fabrication of GA-CH Aerogel Capsules Through Solution Chemistry for Inertial Confinement Fusion

General Atomics (GA) carbon hydrogen (CH) has applications in inertial confinement fusion (ICF) at facilities including the National Ignition Facility and the Omega Laser Facility. However, the physical properties of GA-CH have posed challenges in producing GA-CH shells using a droplet generator, an approach that can mass produce capsules for possible applications in inertial fusion energy .

This work focuses on the development of GA-CH aerogel capsules, exploring advanced fabrication techniques to produce novel geometries and to optimize the microstructure of these shells. The key parameters optimized include aerogel density, density matching of process fluids, and the strategic incorporation of additives. Cure conditions were also investigated to reduce capsule nonconcentricity and out of round.

Additionally, solvent blends were tailored to examine the gelation properties of GA-CH, while interactions with various salts were explored. Droplet generator conditions were altered to enhance the yield and uniformity of the microencapsulated GA-CH capsules. The investigation of cure conditions encompassed thermal profiles, solution viscosities, and rotational speeds. Through advancements in solution chemistry and cure parameters, progress has been made toward testing innovative ICF target designs.