Laser coupling of the numerous flattened Gaussian beams in the fiber-based ICF laser driver

Fiber-based inertial confinement fusion (ICF) laser driver provides a new pathway to realize the inertial fusion energy (IFE). The feasibility of this proposal is checked from the perspective of laser coupling process in this paper. Flattened Gaussian beam (FGB) is assumed for theoretical analysis. The focusing properties of the FGB are used to obtain the requirements for a single laser beam. Based on the typical parameters of the chamber and target in ICF research, the output energy from a single fiber amplification chain is estimated to be over several hundred milli-joule. New fiber structures needs to be designed to meet the requirements.

► The laser coupling issue in the novel fiber-based ICF laser driver is analyzed.
► The requirements for the output capabilities of the fiber laser are given which provides some hint for future research of high energy fiber laser system.