Time-Dependent Energy Deposition in Inertial Confinement Fusion-Fission Hybrid Reactors

The nature of time-dependent energy deposition in inertial confinement fusion-fission hybrid reactors is examined. This energy deposition is both space and time dependent. Calculations are performed for sodium-cooled, uranium-carbide-fueled blankets. Coolant temperature rises on the order of a few degrees and fuel temperature rises on the order of a few tens of degrees are predicted per 15-MJ target pulse. Significant coolant pressure waves having peak pressures on the order of a few megapascals are predicted; however, shock wave formation in the coolant from direct energy deposition is not predicted for these configurations.