What is the Maximum Achievable Tritium Breeding Rate for a Fusion Engine?

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In summary, the conversation discusses the maximum achievable tritium breeding rate in a fusion reactor using Lithium7, Lithium 6, and neutron multipliers like lead and beryllium. The figure of 6 is mentioned as a possible breeding ratio, but there are many factors to consider, such as the energy of the neutrons and the materials used in the blanket. Neutron multiplication is always limited to prevent the creation of a nuclear weapon, but there are ongoing studies to increase the breeding ratio and reduce radioactive waste.
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Sebastiaan
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Let say we need to maximize the amount of breeded Tritium next to a fusion engine, but we got only access of 4% of the emitted neutrons at 14 MeV. What would be the maximum achievable tritium breeding rate, using Lithium7, Lithium 6, and any neutron Neutron multipliers like lead and beryllium.
 
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  • #3
Well I'm trying to figure out what is the theoretical maximum amount of tritium that can be bred. I heard some figures about close to 2, ITER doesn't seem to be able to get higher than 1.6 using Berylium. Another source entirely I heard the figure 6, but this sounds hard to believe.

Either Lead or Berelium is used to increase the amount of neutrons, but the resulting neutron are of lower energy, meaning meutron multiplication is very limited.
 
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  • #4
That is complicated. You need the cross sections for all relevant processes at all relevant energies, and then some simulation. Neutron multiplication is always limited - otherwise you would have a nuclear weapon. Driving a subcritical fission reactor (multiplication of ~20) with an external neutron source is a concept under study (mainly to burn away transactinides), but that is not a fusion reactor any more. Combined fusion/fission reactors are also a concept, but then you have the radioactive waste issue again.
 
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  • #5
mfb said:
Neutron multiplication is always limited - otherwise you would have a nuclear weapon.
LOL
 
  • #6
Sebastiaan said:
Another source entirely I heard the figure 6, but this sounds hard to believe.

what is that figure?
 
  • #7
ChrisVer said:
what is that figure?
I believe Sebastiaan is referring to a breeding ratio, i.e., for one T consumed, one would obtain 6 T, ostensibly from some spallation reactions with neutrons of an initial energy of 14 MeV. There are a number of (n, 2n) reactions and possibly (n,3n) reactions, but they have high energy thresholds. Then each neutron has to be absorbed in something that produces an (n, t) reaction. Alternatively, if one can use some (n, n't) or (n, n'nt) reactions, it might be feasible, but that might require an exotic blanket.

Also, one has to keep in mind the level of consumption. How much of a blanket will be consumed to produce X kg (or moles) of T.
 

Related to What is the Maximum Achievable Tritium Breeding Rate for a Fusion Engine?

1. What is Tritium Breeding?

Tritium breeding is the process of creating tritium, a radioactive isotope of hydrogen, by irradiating lithium in a nuclear reactor. Tritium is an essential fuel for fusion reactions and is also used in nuclear weapons.

2. Why is it important to maximize Tritium Breeding?

Maximizing Tritium Breeding is important because tritium is a limited resource and is crucial for the operation of future fusion reactors. By maximizing tritium breeding, we can produce more tritium to sustain fusion reactions and reduce the reliance on external sources.

3. How is Tritium Breeding maximized?

Tritium Breeding can be maximized by using advanced nuclear reactor designs, such as a breeder reactor, that are specifically designed to produce more tritium. Additionally, optimizing the fuel composition and reactor conditions can also increase tritium production.

4. What are the challenges in maximizing Tritium Breeding?

One of the main challenges in maximizing Tritium Breeding is the high energy required to create tritium from lithium. This makes the process inefficient and costly. Another challenge is finding a suitable material for the neutron multiplier, which is essential for tritium production.

5. Are there any risks associated with Tritium Breeding?

Like any nuclear process, Tritium Breeding carries some risks. The main risk is the potential release of radioactive materials, which can have harmful effects on both humans and the environment. Therefore, strict safety measures must be in place to prevent accidents and mitigate any potential risks.

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