Cm-244 as Multiplier and Breeder in a THO₂Hybrid Blanket Driven by a (D,T) Source

Abstract

The safeguard aspects of Cm-244 - a nuclear waste product in LWRs - in a cylindrical hybrid blanket, driven by a (D,T) fusion neutron source have been analyzed.Cm-244 has been investigated for two different applications:1) As a neutron multiplier between the first wall and the fuel zone in a blanket with ThO22) As a component of the mixed fuel, ThO2-Cm244O2, used for power flattening in a hybrid blanket.The calculations have shown that a relatively small driven with 100 MWth fusion power could produce about 5 kg/year Cm-245, enough to provide nuclear fuel for up to 50 explosives. The study suggests an extension of the safeguarding regulations prior to the commercial introduction of fusion reactors in the energy market.