Yb:YLF Solid-State Laser Technology for Fusion Energy

The recent demonstration of ignition in inertial confinement fusion has marked a major milestone for laser-driven fusion. The next challenge is technological: transforming this achievement into a scalable, efficient, and reliable energy source. Future inertial fusion energy plants will require laser driver systems capable of delivering high-energy, potentially megajoule-class optical pulses on target at multi-hertz repetition rates, while maintaining high wall-plug efficiency and long operational lifetimes.

Starting from the established performance requirements for inertial fusion energy laser drivers, this seminar will use the fundamental principles of laser amplification to evaluate possible solid-state laser approaches. Major gain-media platforms and laser architectures, from Nd:glass systems to diode-pumped cryogenic Yb-based concepts, will be compared in terms of efficiency, scalability, thermal management, and energy extraction.

Special emphasis will be placed on cryogenic Yb:YLF technology as a promising pathway toward efficient high-repetition-rate fusion drivers. The seminar aims to provide both physical insight and a forward-looking engineering perspective on how advances in laser materials, efficiency, and thermal management may contribute to practical inertial fusion energy.