Rochester Lab and Sydor Technologies secure DOE grant for fusion advancements

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Rochester Lab and Sydor Technologies secure DOE grant for fusion advancements
by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Nov 21, 2024

The University of Rochester's Laboratory for Laser Energetics (LLE) and Sydor Technologies have been awarded a $1.15 million Phase II Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). The funding supports the development of plasma-electrode Pockels cell (PEPC) technology, a critical component for advancing inertial fusion facilities.

This collaboration between LLE and Sydor Technologies centers on commercializing mid-scale plasma-electrode Pockels cell (mPEPC) technology. This innovative electro-optic device is key to improving the efficiency and scalability of high-powered laser systems, essential for future fusion energy projects.

The mPEPC technology addresses several important challenges in fusion research:

- Facilitating multipass laser amplification to enhance system performance while minimizing costs and infrastructure size.

- Supporting modular, high-power laser designs necessary for scalable inertial fusion systems.

- Integrating optical isolation and protection features, reducing the need for additional components.

- Laying the groundwork for cost-effective, modular designs in commercial fusion energy facilities.

Originally developed at LLE with funding from the National Nuclear Security Administration, mPEPC technology represents a significant leap in laser system innovation.

David Garand, principal investigator at Sydor Technologies, highlighted the partnership's potential: "This grant provides the opportunity to work hand in hand with the experts at LLE while leveraging facility resources to construct a first-article mPEPC electro-optic cell and to further refine plasma-electrode Pockels cell technology. The Sydor team is excited to continue working toward commercializing this technology and to make it accessible for broad adoption."

Christopher Deeney, director of LLE, underscored the collaboration's importance: "Our historic partnership with Sydor Technologies exemplifies the power of collaboration between research institutions and industry. This project will accelerate the transition of cutting-edge fusion technologies from the lab to commercial applications."

Nicholas West, president of Sydor Technologies, added, "This Phase-II SBIR grant reinforces our commitment to advancing fusion research. By commercializing key technologies like the plasma-electrode Pockels cells, we're supporting both established national laboratories and emerging startups."

Sydor Technologies, a trusted manufacturing partner for inertial fusion researchers, continues its legacy of bridging research and industry. This Phase II SBIR grant builds on years of collaboration between Sydor Technologies and LLE, furthering advancements in both diagnostics and laser system technologies.