A Burn efficiency in Inertial Confinement Fusion

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The discussion focuses on two definitions of burn-up fraction in inertial confinement fusion: the fraction of the target mass that burns and a fraction based on number densities. Participants explore the relationship between these definitions, particularly in non-equimolar cases. The importance of maintaining stoichiometry in the D+T fusion reaction is emphasized, as it affects the likelihood of fusion interactions. The conversation highlights that side reactions, such as D+D and T+T, have lower probabilities compared to the primary D+T reaction. Understanding these concepts is crucial for advancing fusion energy toward breakeven and gain.
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TL;DR
we have two different definitions for burn-up fraction related to inertial confinement fusion

the fraction of the target mass that burns

a fraction that is calculated on number densities
we have two different definitions for burn-up fraction related to inertial confinement fusion

the fraction of the target mass that burns

a fraction that is calculated on number densities

how are these two related in non-equimolar case?
 
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lia2 said:
TL;DR Summary: we have two different definitions for burn-up fraction related to inertial confinement fusion

the fraction of the target mass that burns

a fraction that is calculated on number densities

how are these two related in non-equimolar case?
One would consider the stoichiometry of the mixture. The key reaction is D+T (d+t), other side reactions would be d+d or t+t, which both have lower cross-sections (probability of interaction by fusion). So, one would try to maintain stoichiometry with nd = nt, usually as a mixed gas, or as DT molecule, which would then dissociate when entering the hot plasma.
 
Thread 'Some confusion with the Binding Energy graph of atoms'

Thread 'Some confusion with the Binding Energy graph of atoms'

My question is about the following graph: I keep on reading that fusing atoms up until Fe-56 doesn’t cost energy and only releases binding energy. However, I understood that fusing atoms also require energy to overcome the positive charges of the protons. Where does that energy go after fusion? Does it go into the mass of the newly fused atom, escape as heat or is the released binding energy shown in the graph actually the net energy after subtracting the required fusion energy? I...
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