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Utilization of Fission Reactors for Fusion Engineering Testing

G. A. Deis†, L. G. Miller, M. Youssef

Fusion Science and Technology / Volume 8 / Number 1P2B / July 1985 / Pages 1115-1123

Nuclear Technology Development Issue and Need (Finesse) / Proceedings of the Sixth Topical Meeting on the Technology of Fusion Energy (San Francisco, California, March 3-7, 1985) / dx.doi.org/10.13182/FST85-A39920

Fission reactors can be used to conduct some of the fusion nuclear engineering tests identified in the FINESSE study. To further define the advantages and disadvantages of fission testing, the technical and programmatic constraints on this type of testing are discussed here. This paper presents and discusses eight key issues affecting fission utilization. Quantitative comparisons with projected fusion operation are made to determine the technical assets and limitations of fission testing. Capabilities of existing fission reactors are summarized and compared with technical needs. Conclusions are then presented on the areas where fission testing can be most useful.