How do Fusion/Fission Gamma Rays Compare?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the comparison of gamma rays produced by aneutronic He3-He3 fusion and fission reactions, particularly regarding the implications for nuclear reactor shielding. It is established that He3-He3 fusion generates fewer neutrons, which reduces some shielding concerns, but high-energy photons remain a significant issue. The conversation also touches on the practicality of He3 availability for fusion reactions and the potential for mobile reactors. The lack of concrete data on gamma and neutron emissions from He3-He3 fusion is highlighted as a critical gap in understanding.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of nuclear fusion principles, specifically He3-He3 reactions
  • Knowledge of fission processes and their gamma ray emissions
  • Familiarity with radiation shielding techniques and materials
  • Awareness of the current availability and sourcing challenges of Helium-3
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the gamma ray emissions from He3-He3 fusion reactions
  • Investigate the shielding requirements for high-energy photons in nuclear reactors
  • Explore alternative methods for producing Helium-3 for fusion applications
  • Learn about mobile nuclear reactor designs and their safety considerations
USEFUL FOR

Researchers in nuclear physics, engineers designing mobile reactors, and anyone interested in the safety and efficiency of fusion energy applications.

KangOfCanada
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My concerns are all about how much shielding would be needed for a nuclear reactor. Would aneutronic He3-He3 fusion produce less energetic photons than fission to be more easily used in more mobile reactors? Obviously very few neutrons are made in this reaction so that leaves the high energy photons the remaining concern.

More of a sci-fi interest, the power armour in the fallout 4 have almost no shielding for the "fusion cores".
 
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I do not have information about He3+He3 that produces gammas or neutrons, only X rays (very easy to shield). (perhaps it emits but there is no information)

Very good reaction, but where is the He3? It is impossible to buy, you should use another reaction to generate it
 

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