We describe the next set of experiments proposed in the U.S. Heavy
Ion Fusion Virtual National Laboratory, the so-called Integrated Beam
Experiment (IBX). The purpose of IBX is to investigate in an integrated
manner the processes and manipulations necessary for a heavy ion fusion
induction accelerator. The IBX experiment will demonstrate injection,
acceleration, compression, bending, and final focus of a heavy ion beam
at significant line charge density. Preliminary conceptual designs are
presented and issues and trade-offs are discussed. Plans are also
described for the step after IBX, the Integrated Research Experiment
(IRE), which will carry out significant target experiments.
Progress toward a prototype recirculating induction accelerator for heavy-ion fusion