# Dynamically assisted nuclear fusion

## TL;DR

This paper investigates whether an electromagnetic field, like an XFEL, can enhance tunneling probability in deuterium-tritium fusion, potentially overcoming the Coulomb barrier more effectively with current or near-future technology.

## Contribution

It introduces the concept of dynamical assistance using electromagnetic fields to enhance nuclear fusion tunneling probabilities.

## Key findings

- Dynamical assistance can feasibly increase tunneling probabilities.
- Enhanced fusion rates are possible with existing or near-future XFEL technology.
- The approach offers a new pathway to improve nuclear fusion efficiency.

## Abstract

We consider the prototypical deuterium-tritium fusion reaction. At intermediate initial kinetic energies (in the keV regime), a major bottle-neck of this reaction is the Coulomb barrier between the nuclei, which is overcome by tunneling. Here, we study whether the tunneling probability can be enhanced by an additional electromagnetic field, such as an x-ray free electron laser (XFEL). We find that this dynamical assistance should be feasible with present-day or near future technology.