Selective energy neutron source based on the D-Li stripping reaction

Abstract

A proposal is made on a version of the deuterium-lithium stripping (the FMIT)-type neutron source enhanced with its potential suitability for resolving complex neutron energy dependence in irradiation effects on materials. Some attractive features of such an accelerator-based source are skimmed out which cover the limitations fatal in the conventional means. The flexibility of controlling the quality and quantity of neutrons and the closer accessibility toin-situ- type experimentation are stressed as essential for the advanced studies on either interpretation of complex phenomena or innovating new materials compatible with specific neutron environments. A suggested conceptional design specification includes the selectivity of energy from 5, 10, and 14 MeV, and the maximum fluence of about 0.5–1×10²² n/cm²/year which can create damage of a typical candidate fusion reactor material by around 10 dpa. The concept is stressed to be reasonable and a realistic optionregarding the maturity of underlying technology, financial feasibility, and timing.