Thermal and Mechanical Design Aspects of the LIFE Engine
The Laser Inertial confinement fusion - Fission Energy (LIFE) engine encompasses the components of a LIFE power plant responsible for converting the thermal energy of fusion and fission reactions into electricity. The design and integration of these components must satisfy a challenging set of requirements driven by nuclear, thermal, geometric, structural, and materials considerations. This paper details a self-consistent configuration for the LIFE engine along with the methods and technologies selected to meet these stringent requirements. Included is discussion of plant layout, coolant flow dynamics, fuel temperatures, expected structural stresses, power cycle efficiencies, and first wall survival threats. Further research and to understand and resolve outstanding issues is also outlined.
- Research Organization:
- Lawrence Livermore National Lab. (LLNL), Livermore, CA (United States)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE
- DOE Contract Number:
- W-7405-ENG-48
- OSTI ID:
- 964084
- Report Number(s):
- LLNL-JRNL-408767; TRN: US0904097
- Journal Information:
- Fusion Science and Technology, vol. 56, no. 2, August 1, 2009, pp. 618-624, Vol. 56, Issue 2
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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