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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.
D.A. O'Brien, D. Steiner
Fusion Science and Technology | Volume 15 | Number 2 | March 1989 | Pages 809-814
Safety and Environment — I | doi.org/10.13182/FST89-A39794
Articles are hosted by Taylor and Francis Online.
This paper presents a probabilistic approach for mechanical design problems and applies this approach to a fusion reactor first wall design analysis. The method developed is based on Response Surface Methods, developing an approximation to a consequence of interest. A probability distribution for the consequence is found by Monte Carlo sampling of the input parameters probability distribution and then using the response surface. Adopting a defined criteria for failure, a probability of the consequence exceeding the criteria is found. In this paper the method is applied to the examination of neutron wall load implications. The motivation for this work is to provide an additional tool for design development and assessment.