In-Situ Imaging and Quantification of Tritium Surface Contamination via Coherent Fiber Bundle

Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) has developed a method of imaging tritium on in-situ surfaces for the purpose of real-time data collection. This method expands upon a previous tritium imaging concept, also developed at PPPL.¹ Enhancements include an objective lens coupled to the entry aperture of a coherent fiber optic (CFO) bundle, and a relay lens connecting the exit aperture of the fiber bundle to an intensifier tube and a charge-coupled device (CCD) camera.² The system has been specifically fabricated for use in determining tritium concentrations on first wall materials. One potential complication associated with the development of D-T fueled fusion reactors is the deposition of tritium (i.e. co-deposited layer) on the surface of the primary wall of the vacuum vessel.³ It would be advantageous to implement a process to accurately determine tritium distribution on these inner surfaces. This fiber optic imaging device provides a highly practical method for determining the location, concentration, and activity of surface tritium deposition. In addition, it can be employed for detection of tritium “hot-spots” and “hide-out” regions present on the surfaces being imaged.