Overview of the LIFE fuel cycle

Abstract

The Laser Inertial Fusion Energy (LIFE) engine is a laser-driven inertial fusion energy system being developed with the goal to deliver fusion power in the next decade. A pre-conceptual design is being developed for the LIFE fuel cycle, with the purpose of maximizing the potential safety advantages of fusion energy. Some key features of the LIFE fuel cycle include a high tritium fuel burn-up fraction, a relatively high tritium breeding ratio, low tritium permeation from the coolant/breeder, and limited tritium inventories throughout the facility. The present paper offers an overview the pre-conceptual design of the LIFE fuel cycle, including a summary of the development plan for the delivery of the related tritium processing equipment.