Inertial confinement fusion energy research at the National Ignition Facility (NIF) requires the fabrication of hollow metal spherical capsules for the laser-driven fusion reaction. These sub-millimeter diameter capsules must have perfect coating uniformity and a specific gradient density, achieved by plating two metal elements with graded composition. We are investigating electrodeposition to produce hollow metal spheres as opposed to other deposition techniques (i.e. physical vapor deposition, film casting, etc.), because electrodeposition coats faster, more smoothly, with good thickness uniformity, and better grain size control.

Electroplating metals on spheres presents its own specific challenges; the spherical samples must make contact with the electrified cathode, but must also remain in motion during plating to ensure an even coating. Additionally, electroplating on hollow spheres also involves the challenge of keeping the sphere submerged in the electrolyte. These issues were mitigated by enclosing the mandrel in an electrified cage which the electrolyte is flown through, resulting in intermittent contact of the mandrel with the cathode and a continuous flow of fresh electrolyte to the mandrel surface while plating.

We have developed several approaches for electroplating alloys[1] and density gradients on metal spherical mandrels. We will present results from a parametric study that improved coating uniformity, obtained desired thickness, and achieved the required density gradients during electrodeposition.

This work was performed under the auspices of the U.S. Department of Energy by Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory under Contract DE-AC52-07NA27344. IM Release Number: LLNL-ABS-748349

[1] C. Horwood, M. Stadermann, T.L. Bunn, Metal Alloy ICF Capsules Created by Electrodeposition, Fusion Sci. Technol. 73 (2018) 335–343. doi:10.1080/15361055.2017.1387458.