IFMIF, a major facility for the fusion programme

Full text: The international programme for peaceful use of fusion is currently based on two main tools: ITER, a tokamak aiming at demonstrating the physics principles and main technologies of fusion as a source of energy; this is a collaborative effort launched in 2006 between China, Europe (the host), India, Japan, Korea, Russia and USA. The 'Broader Approach', a bilateral agreement between Japan and Europe signed in 2007 and opened to all ITER parties; this agreement is oriented towards the preparation of the machine after ITER, called DEMO; it comprises 3 projects: The Engineering Validation and Engineering Design Activities of the International Fusion Materials Irradiation Facility (IFMIF/EVEDA), The International Fusion Energy Research Centre (IFERC), The Satellite Tokamak Programme (JT-60SA). Because ITER will produce a limited number of neutrons compared to a fusion reactor like DEMO, a specific tool is required to study the irradiation behaviour of materials under similar conditions. Conceptual studies have led to the choice of an accelerator driven neutron source, using the interaction between two intense deuteron beams (125 mA each, 40 MeV, continuous wave) and a target in liquid lithium. The neutrons produced have the same irradiation effects than the ones produced by the deuterium-tritium reactions in a fusion plasma. Post irradiation examination facilities complete the plant. This facility is called IFMIF. In the framework of the Broader Approach Agreement, the main objective of IFMIF/EVEDA project is the delivery of the Engineering Design Report of IFMIF, enabling its future construction on a site not yet identified. The main technologies shall be demonstrated through the design, the construction and the experiment of three prototypes: the Accelerator, the Lithium Target and the High Flux Test Module of the Test Facilities. After a brief reminder of IFMIF principles, the paper will describe the current status of the project, launched in 2007 for a duration of 7 years. Specific focus will be made on the validation tools mentioned above