Neutron confinement ideas

In summary, the conversation discussed the possibility of capturing emitted neutrons from a nuclear reactor and slowing them down with an EM field. It was also suggested that magnetic confinement fusion could benefit from a disproportionate amount of gravity pulling particles to the center of the reactor. However, this idea was deemed too speculative and the thread was closed.
  • #1
andrew848
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I am certainly not qualified to really comment on this subject, but I have been playing around with some ideas on how to confine neutrons to the interior of a nuclear reactor. I was wondering if there was a way to capture a emitted neutron from a reaction with a selected isotope that would be able to hold on to it long enough be slowed down with a EM field. the heavier isotope being centrifuged out then emitting it into a neutron trap in a ultra cold state and hopefully being able to hold it long enough to decay into a proton.
Side note for funsies that's definitely sci fi, wouldn't magnetic confinement fusion benefit from something that caused a disproportionate amount of gravity pulling particles to the center of the reactor and together. stimulating the higgs field? What amount's to a black hole or a neutron star in the shape of a ring?
Again all of this is well beyond me.
 
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  • #2
andrew848 said:
slowed down with a EM field

Neutrons are electrically neutral, so you can't slow them down with an EM field.
 
  • #3
PeterDonis said:
Neutrons are electrically neutral, so you can't slow them down with an EM field.
But the isotope its bound to isn't. Not even sure if such a element exists with a useful half life and decay type.
 
  • #4
andrew848 said:
the isotope its bound to isn't

You weren't talking about confining isotopes, you were talking about confining neutrons.

In any case, PF is not for personal speculations. Please review the PF rules. I won't even comment about your speculation about fusion confinement.

Thread closed.
 
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1. What is neutron confinement?

Neutron confinement refers to the process of containing and controlling neutrons, which are subatomic particles found in the nucleus of an atom. This is important in nuclear technology, such as in nuclear reactors, where the release of uncontrolled neutrons can lead to a chain reaction and potential disaster.

2. Why is neutron confinement important?

Neutron confinement is important for safety and control in nuclear technology. It helps prevent uncontrolled chain reactions and allows for the controlled release of energy. It also helps protect workers and the environment from harmful radiation.

3. What are some methods of neutron confinement?

There are several methods of neutron confinement, including using materials with low neutron absorption, such as graphite or water, to surround the nuclear reactor. Another method is using control rods, which absorb neutrons and can be inserted or removed to regulate the reaction. Additionally, specialized designs, such as the tokamak, use magnetic fields to confine and control neutrons.

4. How do scientists improve neutron confinement?

Scientists are constantly researching and developing new ways to improve neutron confinement. This includes finding more efficient materials for shielding and control, as well as optimizing reactor designs for better neutron control. Advanced computer simulations and experiments are also used to study and improve neutron confinement methods.

5. What are some challenges with neutron confinement?

One of the main challenges with neutron confinement is finding materials that can withstand the intense radiation and heat of a nuclear reactor. Another challenge is achieving efficient and precise control of the neutrons, as even small errors can have major consequences. Additionally, the cost and complexity of implementing neutron confinement methods can also be a challenge.

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