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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.
José M. Martínez-Val
Fusion Science and Technology | Volume 17 | Number 3 | May 1990 | Pages 476-483
Technical Note | ICF Target | doi.org/10.13182/FST90-A29222
Articles are hosted by Taylor and Francis Online.
The effects induced by fusion-born neutrons within inertial confinement fusion targets are analyzed. Some of these effects, such as neutron energy deposition, are always present and play a significant role in propagating ignition. Other effects, such as the suprathermal fusion induced by knocked-on ions, are of marginal importance. The possibility of inducing internal tritium breeding and other interesting neutronic reactions is also studied, but it is found that they usually produce negligible or even negative consequences in the target performance.