Novel X-ray and neutron sources for high energy density research

This presentation highlights recent breakthroughs in advanced x-ray and neutron sources that are transforming high energy density (HED) physics research at the National Ignition Facility (NIF). A key focus is on novel laser-driven x-ray sources that use ultra-low-density metallic nanowire foams as targets. These materials have demonstrated record brightness and conversion efficiency, surpassing conventional solid-density targets. The resulting x-ray sources deliver high flux and fluence at multi-keV energies, enabling new regimes of material irradiation and powerful tools for probing dense plasmas. Such sources are also crucial for high-resolution backlighting diagnostics, essential for visualizing dynamic processes in HED experiments. Moreover, they serve as vital experimental benchmarks for validating non-local thermodynamic equilibrium (non-LTE) radiation hydrodynamics models, which are fundamental to understanding plasma behavior under extreme conditions. In parallel, advances have been made in neutron source technology. Notably, the development of polar direct drive inertial confinement fusion (ICF) capsules using advanced additive manufacturing, such as two-photon polymerization, has enabled targets with integrated wetted foam layers. These layers act as the primary ablator and are cooled via a fill tube, allowing rapid layering of liquid deuterium and relaxing cryogenic requirements. Initial experiments and simulations indicate these capsules can achieve robust, high-yield, multi-megajoule neutron outputs, offering potential for both ICF and inertial fusion energy (IFE). Collectively, these advances provide efficient source platforms for fundamental science and survivability studies, driving the frontiers of HED research.