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Heavy ion fusion--Using heavy ions to make electricity

Conference ·
OSTI ID:834230

The idea of using nuclear fusion as a source of commercial electrical power has been pursued worldwide since the 1950s. Two approaches, using magnetic and inertial confinement of the reactants, are under study. This paper describes the difference between the two approaches, and discusses in more detail the heavy-ion-driven inertial fusion concept. A multibeam induction linear accelerator would be used to bring {approx}100 heavy ion beams to a few GeV. The beams would then heat and compress a target of solid D-T. This approach is unique among fusion concepts in its ability to protect the reaction chamber wall from neutrons and debris.

Research Organization:
Ernest Orlando Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA (US)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE Director. Office of Science. Office of Fusion Energy Sciences. Contracts DE-AC03-76SF00098. W-7405-ENG-48. DE-AI02-93ER40799. AC02-76CH03073. DE-AI02-94ER-54232 (US)
DOE Contract Number:
AC03-76SF00098
OSTI ID:
834230
Report Number(s):
LBNL--55145; HIFAN 1325
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English