Lawson concepts and criticality in DT fusion reactors

Conference · Tue Dec 01 00:00:00 EST 1987 · Journal of Fusion Energy; (USA)

OSTI ID:5455577

Lartigue, J G ^[1]

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1. Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Mexico City

The original Lawson concepts (amplification factor R and parameter n{tau}) as well as their applications in DT reactors are discussed in two cases: the ignition regime and the subignition regime in a self-sufficient plant. The modified Lawson factor or internal amplification factor R{sub a} (a function of alpha power) is proposed as a means to measure the ignition level reached by the plasma, in a more precise way than that given by the collective parameter (n{tau}kT). The self-sufficiency factor ({delta}) is proposed as a means to measure the plant self-sufficiency, {delta} being more significant than the traditional Q factor. It is stated that the ignition regime (R{sub a} = 1) is equivalent to a critical state (energy equilibrium); then, the corresponding critical mass concept is proposed. The analysis of the R{sub a} relationship with temperature (kT), (n{tau}), and recirculating factor ({var epsilon}) gives the conditions for the reactor to reach ignition or for the plant to reach self-sufficiency; it also shows that an approach to ignition is not improved by heating from 50 to 100 KeV.

• OSTI ID: 5455577
• Report Number(s): CONF-870457-; CODEN: JFEND; TRN: 89-029780
• Journal Information: Journal of Fusion Energy; (USA), Vol. 6:4; Conference: Annual meeting of Fusion Power Associates: applications of laser, particle beam, and RF power technologies, Pleasanton, CA (USA), 8-9 Apr 1987; ISSN 0164-0313
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY
D-T REACTORS
LAWSON CRITERION
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FEASIBILITY STUDIES
PLASMA DIAGNOSTICS
PLASMA HEATING
THERMONUCLEAR IGNITION
THERMONUCLEAR POWER PLANTS
EFFICIENCY
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