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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.
Jack S. Watson, Clay E. Easterly, Johnnie B. Cannon, J. B. Talbot
Fusion Science and Technology | Volume 12 | Number 3 | November 1987 | Pages 354-363
Technical Paper | Safety/Environmental Aspect | doi.org/10.13182/FST87-A25068
Articles are hosted by Taylor and Francis Online.
Tritium releases from fusion reactors were estimated for normal (nonaccident) operating conditions. The STARFIRE reactor design was used as a reference case, but the effects of alternate design choices and conditions were also addressed. Potential environmental losses were examined for each of the major tritium handling systems. Estimates of ∼20 Ci/day were made for the 1000-MW(electric) reactor, with approximately equal portions coming from the gas handling systems (plasma, vacuum, and fuel systems) and from the coolant system.