A Small Fusion Reactor Based on the Dense Z-Pinch

Recent developments in z-pinch stability theory and encouraging results from frozen-fiber pinch experiments have led to renewed interest in the simple linear pinch as a possible fusion system. In this paper, a zero-dimensional pinch model coupled to a realistic circuit model is used to establish a point design. It is assumed that the pinch remains stable only as long as the current is rising, and that the magnetic energy can be recovered efficiently after the pinch has gone unstable. It is then shown that a self-sustaining cycle is possible in which circuit losses are balanced by direct conversion of some of the alpha-particle energy, and no net energy input is required. The repetition rate is limited by the rate at which the helium reaction product can be pumped away. A reactor operating at 40 Hz could produce about 350 MW_th from a reactor vessel 2 - 3 m in diameter.