In the quest to harness the power of fusion energy, scientists are tackling a myriad of challenges, one of which is the development and qualification of breeding blankets (BB). These critical components are essential for tritium self-sufficiency and power extraction in fusion reactors. A recent study published in the journal “Nuclear Fusion” (formerly known as “Fusion Energy and the Design of Fusion Devices”) explores how the International Fusion Materials Irradiation Facility-Demo Oriented Neutron Source (IFMIF-DONES) could play a pivotal role in this endeavor.
The study, led by Dr. Davide Rapisarda from the Centro de Investigaciones Energéticas, Medioambientales y Tecnológicas (CIEMAT) in Madrid, Spain, focuses on the potential of IFMIF-DONES to validate and qualify structural materials for the demonstration fusion power plant, DEMO. The facility’s lithium target produces an intense, high-energy neutron flux, mimicking the conditions expected in a fusion reactor. This unique capability makes IFMIF-DONES an attractive test bench for various fusion-related experiments.
One of the key aspects highlighted in the study is the medium flux area of IFMIF-DONES, which offers a larger irradiation volume compared to the high flux test area. This feature makes it an ideal environment for testing tritium technologies and other components, such as Test Blanket Units (TBUs). As Dr. Rapisarda explains, “The TBU will increase the technology readiness level of this important component. Its main goal will be to contribute to the BB qualification in an irradiation environment similar to that expected in a fusion reactor, performing multi-physics experiments in an integrated testing.”
The proposed TBU is a mock-up of a breeding blanket concept, such as the Helium Cooled Pebble Bed (HCPB) or the Water Cooled Lead-Lithium (WCLL). By testing these designs in a controlled environment like IFMIF-DONES, scientists can gather valuable data to inform the development of DEMO and future fusion power plants.
The implications of this research extend beyond the scientific community, with significant commercial impacts for the energy sector. As fusion energy inching closer to reality, the development of reliable and efficient breeding blankets is crucial for the economic viability of fusion power plants. The insights gained from IFMIF-DONES could accelerate the deployment of fusion energy, offering a clean, safe, and virtually limitless source of power.
Moreover, the flexibility of IFMIF-DONES’ engineering design allows for the proposal of new experiments, fostering innovation and collaboration within the fusion community. As Dr. Rapisarda notes, “The IFMIF-DONES engineering design has been developed to maximize flexibility, and at this stage, this kind of new experiment can be proposed.”
In conclusion, the study by Dr. Rapisarda and his colleagues sheds light on the potential of IFMIF-DONES to advance the development of breeding blankets and other critical components for fusion reactors. By providing a unique testing environment, IFMIF-DONES could play a pivotal role in shaping the future of fusion energy, with significant implications for the global energy landscape. As the world seeks to transition towards a low-carbon economy, the insights gained from this research could help unlock the full potential of fusion power, paving the way for a sustainable and prosperous future.