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DTRA’s advancements in nuclear and radiological detection
A new, more complex nuclear age has begun. Echoing the tensions of the Cold War amid rapidly evolving nuclear and radiological threats, preparedness in the modern age is a contest of scientific innovation. The Research and Development Directorate (RD) at the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) is charged with winning this contest.
W. M. Stacey, J. P. Aldridge, R. L. Beilke, L. G. Bryson, E. P. Davidson, T. A. Deterding, J. G. Evans, E. M. Fort, R. D. Jeffcoat, S. Klima, M. T. McLain, A. D. Nielsen, M. J. O'Neill, G. Y. Poe, H. U. Rehman, B. H. Rose, G. M. Roach, A. O. Rodriguez, R. T. Still, D. D. Thomas, M. P. Valenzano
Fusion Science and Technology | Volume 33 | Number 4 | July 1998 | Pages 443-455
Technical Paper | doi.org/10.13182/FST98-A43
Articles are hosted by Taylor and Francis Online.
A design concept for a fusion neutron source-based tritium production reactor has been developed, where liquid Li is used as the coolant and tritium breeder and V-4 Cr-4 Ti is used as the structural material. The fusion neutron source is predicated on the physics and technology that will be demonstrated in the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER). The present design can produce 2 kg/yr excess tritium for weapons replenishment operating at fusion power levels of 300 to 750 MW and with corresponding plant availability factors of 25 to 10%. No structural component should fail as a result of radiation damage during the 40-yr lifetime of the reactor, and it should be possible to dispose of the radioactive waste created upon decommissioning as low-level waste that qualifies for shallow land burial. A fusion tritium production reactor based on ITER physics and technology would seem to be a realistic option for satisfying the nation's tritium production needs.