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Fusion energy: Progress, partnerships, and the path to deployment
Over the past decade, fusion energy has moved decisively from scientific aspiration toward a credible pathway to a new energy technology. Thanks to long-term federal support, we have significantly advanced our fundamental understanding of plasma physics—the behavior of the superheated gases at the heart of fusion devices. This knowledge will enable the creation and control of fusion fuel under conditions required for future power plants. Our progress is exemplified by breakthroughs at the National Ignition Facility and the Joint European Torus.
A. R. Larson, I. O. Bohachevsky
Fusion Science and Technology | Volume 4 | Number 2 | September 1983 | Pages 1245-1250
Blanket and First Wall Engineering | doi.org/10.13182/FST83-A23028
Articles are hosted by Taylor and Francis Online.
Discussed are the advantages of using fusion neutrons for breeding special nuclear materials and tritium. Monte Carlo calculations were used to identify both fissionable and nonfissionable materials that multiply neutrons and increase breeding ratios. Fissionable multipliers also greatly multiply the neutron energy. A generic blanket design that utilizes 238U as a neutron multiplier is decribed and compared to an ideal infinite-medium blanket. Time-dependent calculations show gradual improvement of performance during the lifetime of the blanket. The blanket analyzed here is compatible with a reaction chamber that uses high velocity lithium, held on the wall by centrifugal acceleration, to protect the wall from pellet explosions.