Progress in U.S. fusion safety and environmental activities over the last decade

Journal Article · Sat Jan 01 04:00:00 EST 2000 · Fusion Technology

OSTI ID:20005654

Petti, D; McCarthy, K

Magnetic fusion energy has the potential for superior safety and environmental (S and E) characteristics relative to other energy options, which is one of the main reasons for developing fusion power. Excellent progress has been made in understanding the nature of the S and E concerns associated with fusion power and in demonstrating the S and E potential of fusion. Over the past 10 yr, US fusion S and E activities have been largely focused on the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER). The design of ITER is such that the hazards addressed are similar to those of a future fusion power plant; hence, many of the safety issues addressed by ITER are relevant to commercial fusion power plants. This paper reviews the progress and accomplishments in fusion S and E activities performed largely in support of ITER over the past decade and discusses future directions in fusion safety design criteria development and implementation; characterization of the radioactive and hazardous materials in fusion and the potential energy sources that could mobilize those materials during an accident; integrated state-of-the-art safety and risk analysis tools, methods, and results; and development of environmental design criteria for radioactive and hazardous fusion waste minimization as well as the evaluation of recycle/reuse potential of fusion materials.

• Research Organization: Idaho National Engineering and Environmental Lab., Idaho Falls, ID (US)
• Sponsoring Organization: US Department of Energy
• DOE Contract Number: AC07-94ID13223
• OSTI ID: 20005654
• Journal Information: Fusion Technology, Journal Name: Fusion Technology Journal Issue: 1 Vol. 37; ISSN FUSTE8; ISSN 0748-1896
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY
ACCIDENTS
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
ITER TOKAMAK
RADIOACTIVE WASTES
RISK ASSESSMENT
SAFETY
TECHNOLOGY ASSESSMENT
THERMONUCLEAR POWER PLANTS
WASTE MANAGEMENT