ENGINEERING PROBLEMS OF LASER-DRIVEN FUSION-REACTORS

The University of Wisconsin fusion reactor study group has completed a study of laser fusion reactor problems incorporated into a self-consistent reactor design, SOLASE. The purpose of the SOLASE study is to identify and quantitatively analyze the major technological features posed by laser fusion reactors, to assess the relative advantages and prospective problems, and to guide further research. The engineering problems examined in the SOLASE study include first wall design and protection, radiation damage and materials constraints, compatibility of first wall and pellet materials, placement and protection of the last optical elements, pellet injection requirements, tritium breeding and blanket design concepts, vacuum pumping requirements, heat removal and power cycle considerations, recirculating power requirements, and shielding and primary containment considerations. Other conceptual reactor designs have also been examined and critically compared.