Three-Dimensional Fusion Yield Predictions for Reactor-Relevant Plasma Jet Magneto-Inertial Fusion

The PLX-BETHE project is studying plasma liner formation and implosion by merging a spherical array of plasma jets as a standoff driver for magneto-inertial fusion (MIF). We present results from 3D Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH) simulations of Plasma Jet Magneto-Inertial Fusion (PJMIF) using the SPFMax code. Building on promising stagnation parameters identified by the PJMIF collaboration, these simulations model the formation of target, afterburner, and liner plasmas through the merging of plasma jets. The goal is to assess how 3D hydrodynamic and electromagnetic effects alter idealized behavior, and to identify potential challenges and optimization paths toward ignition.



Initial simulations assume idealized magnetic flux conservation with a uniform field, providing baseline comparisons. We then explore more realistic pilot configurations, including a field-reversed configuration (FRC) target embedded in vacuum or low-density fill. The physics model includes tabular equations of state, anisotropic thermal conduction, radiation transport, fusion reactions, and full electromagnetic coupling, with ongoing development toward external coil field modeling.



These studies aim to build confidence that PJMIF can be scaled toward ignition and high-gain operation, offering an efficient, target-compatible path for fusion energy. Results highlight the impact of magnetization on jet-target interaction, compression symmetry, and burn dynamics.