Materials for thermonuclear fusion reactors

A brief discussion of conceptual designs for both a Tokamak and a theta-pinch reactor are presented in order to place the material requirements for these devices in perspective. Materials for controlled thermonuclear reactors are subjected to two types of radiation effects, bulk and surface or near surface effects, which greatly influence the choice of materials. Both of these types of radiation effects are discussed. Properties of Nb, Mo, V, Fe-based alloys, and Ni-based alloys are compared to aid in the selection of a material for the metal first wall of the vacuum vessel. Criteria for selection of materials for use as first wall materials, both metal and insulator, and diverter trapping surfaces are discussed. The blanket material could be composed of two materials, but Li and systems involving Li are discussed as serving both functions of the blanket-adsorption of energy with heat transfer and generation of tritium. Requirements set forth for superconductivity materials for magnets indicated that currently available materials are just barely adequate to satisfy requirements, and development of new superconducting materials would be of much value. The buildup of tritium within the reactor presents the problem of materials for permeation barriers or alteration of wall structures envisioned for the reactor in such a way as to prevent tritium permeation. The material requirements associated with this problem are addressed briefly. 158 references