2D numerical comparison between SnSn and M1M1 radiation transport methods

In this article we study the accuracy of the M1 method to solve some relevant radiation transport problems in 2D. We compare two radiation models (Sn and M1) with analytical and numerical tests to highlight the strengths and limitations of each method. These methods give comparable results except when sharp geometry effects are present. We have used these methods in a test that mimics, without fluid motion or electron heat conduction, the cone-target interaction relevant to inertial confinement fusion physics. In this case, we show that Sn and M1 models agree with a quite good accuracy but shows differences in the temperature profiles and heating times inside the target. These results point out that M1 is a possible alternative candidate for 3D simulations, where full energy transport methods are extremely computer time consuming.