On design and development issues for the FRC and related alternate confinement concepts

Two prior D-He-3 field-reversed configuration (FRC) reactor designs, ARTEMI S and SAFFIRE are reviewed to identify key physics, technology, and design issues for FRC development. It is concluded that the D-He-3 FRC can potenti ally offer a cost competitive and environmentally compatible power plant if the technology issues can be suitably resolved. The D-He-3 FRC also appear s to be particularly attractive for non-electrical application such as He-3 breeding or hydrogen production. An important developmental issue becomes whether or not a D-T version should be employed as the first-generation uni t. If so, emphasis must be placed on methods to handle high neutron and hea t first-wall loadings, e.g. by use of a liquid first wall. Also, the develo pment of improved thermal energy conversion cycles such as the use of liqui d metal MHD becomes an important goal. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science S.A. All r ights reserved.