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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.
Geoffrey W. Shuy, Ali E. Dabiri, Husam Gurol
Fusion Science and Technology | Volume 9 | Number 3 | May 1986 | Pages 459-475
Technical Paper | Fusion Reactors | doi.org/10.13182/FST86-A24732
Articles are hosted by Taylor and Francis Online.
A system of neutron-lean tandem mirror satellite reactors using the deuterium-3He (D-3He) fuel cycle has been assessed. The 3He fuel is produced via a breeder reactor, also based on the tandem mirror reactor (TMR) concept. The TMR concept was selected because, for the satellite reactors, the fusion energy is mostly in charged-particle form, so efficient, direct energy conversion can be used. For the breeder, the TMR gives a higher maximum achievable support ratio than other concepts give. The optimum satellite operating temperature was found to be ∼75 keV. The safety and cost of the satellite/breeder system were assessed. The D-3He fuel cycle becomes particularly attractive if the deuterium-deuterium (D-D) reaction can be suppressed by nuclear spin polarization. For perfect D-D reaction suppression, this would allow immediate hands-on maintainability of reactor components and allow for reduction in the magnet dimensions, since the shield would no longer be required. For no D-D reaction suppression, ∼3% of the fusion power will be in neutrons. This will then require the use of ∼40-cm shielding, along with activation concerns. Hands-on maintenance f or the satellite reactor is possible even without D-D reaction suppression, if low-activation materials are used. The radioactivity level of the 3He breeder is comparable to that of a deuterium-tritium reactor. The cost of electricity for the system, including the fuel costs, is estimated f or this system.