The (D-T) Fusion-Fission Hybrid

Abstract

A symbiont system has been defined in previous chapters as consisting of two separate though coupled nuclear facilities. In contrast, a hybrid reactor is one nuclear power station but based on two distinct and dominant nuclear processes. In particular, the D-T hybrid consists of a D-T-burning fusion core surrounded by a blanket which displays many characteristics of a subcritical fission reactor core and which also breeds tritium. The fusion-source neutrons from the core combine with the fission-source neutrons to establish a steady-state neutron population in this blanket. Though the hybrid clearly differs fundamentally from a symbiont in both concept and technological requirements, similar analytical representations for both are possible, allowing therefore a degree of continuity with previous chapters.