AMPLIFICATION OR GENERATION OF SHOCK FRONTS

摘要

Apparatus for generating or amplifying shock wavefronts comprises an energy store (1) of a stressed metal or metal alloy in which the stress has been induced at a plurality of discrete regions (2) by atoms or ions (e.g. hydrogen ions) at interstitial sites of the lattice. The energy stored in the lattice is capable of at least partial release when a shock wavefront (5) passes over the stressed region as a result of a stimulus (3). Shockwave may be directed to a focus at which is provided a fusion fuel (e.g. a deuterium-tritium mixture) to initiate a fusion reaction.