DE2056199A1 - Fusion reactors - using pinched plasma with laser injection inside spherical magnetic field - Google Patents

Abstract

Fusion reactor utilising a HDTHEplasma injected into a reaction vessel with an external spherical magnetic field to create a pinched plasma. This is subjected to laser impulse bombardment at least two impulse pairs following one after another to induce fusion of the hydrogen nuclei. Subsequent gamma and heat energy release is absorbed by a lithium 6/7 cooling jacket which surrounds the reaction vessel. The consequent lithium reactions produce tritium helium plus heat energy in addition to surplus neutrons. Ancillary plant separates the tritium and helium for re-cycling with deuterium from a storage vellse for re-injection in the reaction chamber. Helium is also extracted for use as a coolant for the magnetic coils. The litium is circulated through a heat exchanger to convert its heat energy to steam for thermal power plant.

Description

Fusion reactor with quantized energy release by means of compressing Laser pulses and a magnetic field.

The invention relates to a method and a device in several ways Variants for the controlled release of the fusion energy from discontinuous and meterable, quantified in a solid, gas or plasma state Hydrogen nuclei (HDT nuclei) with the help of laser pulses with compressing Properties, with hollow cone, nozzle or cylindrical face geometry and an energy gradient directed towards the pulse axis as well as with the help of a with spherical geometry formed magnetic confinement within a reaction chamber designed as a heat exchanger or expansion space.

Processes and devices for obtaining heat from fusion processes using lasers have become known, but have not yet come through the experimental stage since the energy balance is still negative (# <1), i.e. it has to go into the Plasma can put even more energy into it than the nuclear reaction delivers.

A positive energy balance (#> 1) for a current plasma to obtain certain requirements for the plasma density n, lifetime # and Temperature T can be set. The relationship between these three quantities is in well-known Lawson Diagraem, Figure 11. The two curves DD and DT indicate the values of n, # and T, at which the efficiency of the corresponding reaction elns is.

Below these limit curves the energy balance is negative, above it if it is positive, it follows from this diagram that oin douterium-tritium plasma at least a temperature of 104 eV, i.e. 108 K with a value of n.r = Must have 1014 sec cm-3 for the energy balance to be positive. That means to Example that such a plasma of 108 K and a density of n = 1017 particles must be held together per cm³ for at least 10-3 seconds or at a density of 102 cm-3 only lo-8 sec; because in both cases the product of n # has the value 1014 sec cm-3 (n # = 1017cm-310-3sec = 1022 cm-3 10-8sec = 1014 sec cm-3). The so-called Energy or

n temperature threshold Es or Ts, from which a positive energy balance is to be expected, e.g. for the product n # = 1016 sec cm-3 for the DT reaction at E8 = 3.9 KeV resp. T8 2 45 10 K and in the case of the DD reaction only at Es = 40 KeV respectively Ts = 460, 106 K.

The usual method up to now of producing such a plasma exists among other things, to operate a gas discharge with a capacitor in the very high currents (primary or secondary currents) through the gas discharge in a very short time flow to compress the plasma to very high temperatures. The magnetic field the discharge current holds the plasma together for a short time #. Depending on the arrangement of gas discharges and magnetic fields, these arrangements are called Z or Theta pinch designated. In all current experiments, the energy balance is still negative because either the temperature is too low, the density is too low or the service life is too low is too short.

In the previous methods of bringing about nuclear fusion with the help of laser light, light pulses of extremely high power density were used, that is, the available light energy was extracted from the laser in a very short time (approx With an optical lens focused on a very small area, e.g. 0.1 mm, one obtains very high power densities which would be sufficient. H, D, T nuclei), but the partial speed at the required temperatures is so high that they have diverged in an extremely short time. A laser plasma of 0.1 mm # and a temperature of 1 KeV (= 107 Because of the high particle speed, K) diverged in a few 10-1 ° sec. One tries to counter this mishap by generating extremely short pulses around there s heating up the plasma before it has run apart. The currently successful experiment by F10ux (1) used a neodymium glass laser with a light pulse with a peak power of 4,109 watts and an energy content of 40 Ws, i.e. a pulse duration of t = E / N = 10-8 sec. The light pulse was focused through a lens onto an area of 0.1 mm #. A small piece of deuterium ice was used as the starting substance and bombarded in a vacuum. With this arrangement, plasma temperatures of KT = 500 to 700 eV were achieved, i.e. T = (5-7). 106 K. With each shot of the gun, 100-300 neutrons were produced, 60 that on the basis of the reaction equation: approximately the same frequency in D plasma.

200 to 10000 DD reactions could be concluded. These reactions however only generate a negligibly small amount of energy of approx (200-100). 3.62 MeV = (724-3620) MeV resp. (1.15-5.8) .10-10 Ws.

Measured on the 40 Ws of expended energy content of the laser pulse however, this is only a negligibly small amount.

Proposals have also been made to continuous external energy radiation of one or more lasers into the center of a plasma to reach the thermonuclear temperature threshold, while at the same time the radiation losses are partly reflected back into the plasma in a highly concentrated manner become t2).

Even with processes of this kind there are still no fusion reactions has been achieved on a larger scale, since the locally generated high temperatures, i.e. high speed of the zones, is immediately distributed to the neighboring plasma and the temperature remains below the fusion circuit. Even if very large continuous Laser powers, for example 109 watts (= 1000MW), would be available the merger threshold as a result of the ongoing high radiation losses after this Principle cannot be achieved. A plasma with, for example, 1020 particles per cm³ and a volume of 1 cm³ radiates for one second at T = 107 K (E = 1 KeV) has an output of around 5,109 watts (5 gigawatts). At or below this However, no fusion reactions (in DD or DT plasma) occur in the larger temperature Amounts that could cover these losses on an ongoing basis. So it seems impossible that these ongoing high losses from laser irradiation were ever applied could become.

As from measurements of the directional distribution of the speed of Plasma ions that are generated when bombarded with laser pulses onto a solid target material generated earth, goes down, most of the generated ions are almost perpendicular towards the flat target surface and against the beam direction of the laser. With two located on a common optical axis and directed in opposite directions Laser pulses There are also no or only a few nuclear reactions on a common target bring about (Fig. 1.1). An arrangement according to Fig.1.2 offers better OUT views (3), in which the ions generated are directed against each other by means of cavity laser pulses offset 1'argets are generated. With this arrangement a part of the generated ions against each other, so that fusion reactions can occur. The biggest However, part of the generated fast ions flies away to the side and thus separates fdr a possible reaction.

The yield of the remaining ions directed towards one another is then small due to low concentration. This method is therefore not suitable for Energy generation on a larger scale. It is only very suitable for generation short-term neutron impulses, e.g. to study the chronological sequence of Interactions between neutrons and matter.

However, a higher fusion rate was also achieved using this method obtained, if the target according to Fig. 1.3 or 1.4 with a strong (statiscilen) Magnetic field surrounds respectively. interspersed. In the event of a bombardment with laser pulses then the released ions do not fly away because they reflect on the magnetic field will. When the fusion reaction starts, the magnetic field would change as shown in Fig.1.5 respectively 1.6 expand spherically in the area of the target, provided that the magnetic field is kept a little weaker above the targets than on the side. This is through two at a certain distance from each other, excitation coils - due to their stray fields - given without further ado (see also the design of the magnetic coils according to Fig.7.7). To the However, this method is also not particularly suitable for generating energy, as the fusion material can only be applied to the target material in small amounts and impurities the plasma temperature is high due to the heavy foreign elements of the carrier material would reduce (with Z2 the atomic number of the element concerned).

However, an arrangement according to Figures 1.7 to 1.11 offers better alignment.

According to the arrangement shown in Figure 1.? two solid hydrogen spheres are used as the target material used, which brought into the magnetic field in a suitable manner before bombardment became. Since there is now a magnetic field, it is not absolutely necessary to have two spheres are baked in and no cavity pulses are used because the magnetic field the ions then also hold back respectively. when reflected immediately according to Fig.1.8-1.10 are emitted in or across the direction of the magnetic field. The arrangement according to Fig.1.9 is more favorable than the one according to Fig.1.8, since the directly accelerated Ions are moved almost perpendicular to the direction of the magnetic field and not like this is the case in Fig.1.8, only a small angle to the direction of the magnetic field.

Figure 1.10 shows a cross-section. Fig. 1.9 and is intended to indicate that the entry of the taser impulses simultaneously from several directions and perpendicular to the field lines H as well as in pairs.

In the case of the arrangement according to Fig. 1.11, the magnetic field is the fear on the right The arranged coil is kept somewhat weaker (# 1> # 2) than the left one.

This causes the fused plasma to move to the right (in Direction # 2) can escape. The shot of the laser pulse or beam can in this version also transversely to the direction of the magnetic field and at the same time from several Directions, as shown in the design according to Fig.1.1o, take place.

The one necessary for constriction of the plasma in these arrangements The pressure of the magnetic walls must be at least so great that it is the result of the heating the thermal pressure caused by the plasma maintains equilibrium. For a temperature from 240 ELill. K and n = 106 cm 3 is to compensate for the thermal pressure of Pth = 657 at the enclosed plasma sphere a magnetic field of 1.3. 105 gauss necessary (4), which is applied, for example, with a superconducting magnet coil could be (5).

In order to do without this complex magnetic field, or at least According to the invention, the cohesion of the is reduced to an acceptable level Fusion plasma for the time of the necessary reaction life from the laser pulse completely or partially taken over, in addition to the task of supplying energy, takes over the The laser pulse also simultaneously has the task of (total or partial cohesion) of the hydrogen ions to be fused (H, D, T), with still at will additionally arranged the mentioned magnetic field to strengthen the cohesion can be.

So that the laser pulse can disintegrate the task intended for it its end face has a hollow cone, nozzle or cylindrical recess and along its axis a radially inwardly decreasing energy gradient BEZW. Photon density exhibit. Such pulse shapes can be used separately, for example generate lenses arranged outside the laser as shown in Fig.2.1-2.5 or Fig.3.1, or by using the solid-state crystal of the laser or the glass rod of the glass laser (6) a corresponding recess on the light exit side (after the mirror coating) provides and makes the crystal so thick that the -symmetrically fed to the crystal- Pump power is absorbed more strongly by the outer layers than by the ones further inside. For symmetrical illumination of the active laser material (Crystals, glasses, gases, etc.), for example, ring-cylindrical flash lamps are suitable, whose outer cylinder jacket is mirrored on the inside. The active laser material is located in the axis of this lamp, so that a symmetrical illumination respectively. Occupation of the active material is possible.

To avoid the normally flat leading edge of the laser pulse on the to be thinned resp. ions to be confined take undefined directions respectively escape sideways - because ionization is practically already with the energy content the rise.

edge reached - the front side of the laser pulse is amplified, by using an optical switch (Pockel cell) cut off (Fig.2.1) (7). The impulse then passes through a corresponding conical or parabolic lens (Fig.2.1 and 2.2) or do Fig.2.3 first through a cylindrical, transparent body and then through a lens for focusing.

Depending on the size of the refraction, the glass or glass used Different types of diamond are obtained for different thicknesses (= pass lengths) Changes in transit time for the laser light. So you get for example when using of crown glass with the refractive index 15 air / crown glass = 1.5 (=) with a difference in thickness of 10 mm 10 a Laufwegvwekürzung respectively. Deepening of the laser pulse by 10-15 = 5 mm. When using flint glass with the refractive index air / Flint-17 glass: 1.7 (=) and 10 mm difference in thickness, a deepening of 17-10 7 is achieved mm. When using a diamond with the 15 refractive index air / diamond = 2.5 (=) a thickness difference of 6 mm, for example, is already achieved with 6 Depression of 1-6 = 9 mm.

With Fig.2.4 and 2.5 the front side of a laser pulse is enlarged shown, the one according to Fig.2.1 respectively. 2.2 executed lens shape generated. at recognizes from it that one is on a gas or on klelnore, spherical Solid-body focusing effect occurs through the laser pulse and this occurs accordingly Cylindrical (Fig.2.4) or spherical (Fig.2.5) collects or condensed. This focusing The effect is also present on the entire pulse length as it is on the entire axis in the radial direction - as already described - there is an energy gradient.

From Fig.3.1-3.4 the mode of operation of two, on one common directed optical axis located and against each other / laser pulses of the mentioned Kind represented. The focal points F1 and F2 of the two systems are for the purpose Preservation of the minimum volume required to absorb the plasma the side of the other optical system. The focal point F1 of the laser L1 is therefore closer to the optical system b1, b2 than the focus F2 of the laser L2 and vice versa.

The gas to be fused (HDT gas) can be in various ways and in the three different states of aggregation (solid, gaseous and in plasma form) be brought into the cavity of the laser pulse (practical implementation options to follow).

In Fig.4.1 and 4.2 it is shown how those in Fig.2.4 and 2.5 are focused cylinder or spherical ion packets are pushed into one another and fdr the Duration of the pending laser pulse are kept together. In this case the fusion mixture arrives independently in a gaseous state within a fusion chamber, i.e. when flying through the gas path, into the cavity of the two laser pulses after Fig. 4.3 the fusion mixture comes in the form of a single ice sphere (manufacture according to known method (8) or other possibilities) parallel or transversely to optical axis into the pulse cavity of two laser pulses. Got to Fig.4: 4 finally the fusion geiniscii in the form of very small ice spheres (aerosol) in the pulse cavity, which is sprayed into a reaction chamber from a nozzle. The hollow spaces of the laser pulses are dimensioned in this way. focused that they are just so can absorb as much fusion substance as their energy is sufficient, this completely to merge.

Fig.4.5-4.7 show laser pulses of the special focusing type, together with a magnetic field whose field lines run parallel to the optical axis. The magnetic field can also be transverse to the optical Axis run, only here is the one on the flight path to the central point during aes ionization process occurs - the additional focusing effect of the magnetic field only in the transverse direction given to these. In the design of the magnetic field according to Fig. 4.5 to 4.7 it expands the fusion mixture is about equally strong in all directions. In the design of the magnetic field according to Fig.5.1-5.3 expands the fusion mixture according to a desired Preferred direction (to the right) due to the weaker dimensioned magnetic field on the side of the desired direction of expansion. Fig.5.4-5.5 shows the processes for the timing of a two-stage reaction chain.

The magnetic fields (static) fall in their strength in the desired Direction of expansion. The fusible fuel mixture enclosed on the left according to Fig.5.3 is first ignited respectively by the laser pulse. brought to fusion (Fig.5.4). As a result of this fusion, the magnetic field initially expands to such an extent that. be Energy content heats up the fuel ball enclosed further to the right and fusion brings (Fig. 5). When the fusion process has ended, i.e. when the pressure is increased, it expands the weaker right end of the magnetic field and that fused as well the unfused plasma leaves the magnetic field in the desired direction (to smell).

Further versions of this kind are shown in Figs. 6.1-6.3 The Xagnetic Fields However, these versions are dynamic, and can e.g. via capacitors with high energy content or powerful electrical switches, e.g. welding ingitrons etc., with short-term current impulses from a powerful alternating current network $ (Rectangular shape) can be controlled. At the time of the highest current increase respectively. the strongest magnetic field is the laser pulse (across or perpendicular to the magnetic field) shot into the pre-compressed plasma. The amount of plasma is so small held (approx. 1020 particles) that the energy content of the two (currently possible) Laser impulses are sufficient to bring about a fusion respectively. -for execution after Fig.6.2 - to initiate the fusion for the second and further enclosed plasma spheres. The version according to Fig. 6.3 has a static one that slopes down in the direction of expansion Magnetic field. The plasma is generated here by means of a plasma accelerator via a magnetic one The supplied to the individual magnetic constriction stages. The laser impulses of the described kind are in pairs and transversely in the middle, or after Fig.6.t.1, Shot right next to the first plasma ball.

After the expansion of the first plasma ball (or the one in the laser pulse enclosed nuclei according to Fig.6.1.1-) becomes those in the weaker magnetic field constricted plasma sphere is captured, and the expansion due to fusion then plummets only continue in this desired direction (to the right). Now can after finished Fusion process in the two weaker magnetic field areas from the magnetic You must again flow in new plasma and be brought to fusion again.

In Fig.6.4 a fusible plasma sphere is in the middle of a spherical one Container produced by generating a gas discharge. The magnetic field H, that that surrounds the discharge current I is due to the the electric discharge current partly in the ring cylinder R, in the vicinity of the electrodes formed stronger than in the middle of the ring cylinder. This forms A magnetic field develops, which compresses the plasma into the shape of a bottle and in the middle the reaction chamber hangs. The two laser pulses (or multiple pairs) will be Shot across or at an angle to the magnetic direction. In the case of cross-overs are im Ring cylinder R has the appropriate bores provided, as shown in Fig.6.4.

Should a larger fusible amount, e.g. frozen deuterium with 1021 particles at a cubic centimeter sphere volume, are brought to fusion in which the Laser pulse energy is not immediately sufficient for the entire amount to this To bring about fusion, one can proceed as shown in Fig.7.1-7.6. According to Fig 7.1 is the D-ice sphere in the now known static magnetic field which either was shot in from the outside along or across the direction of the field lines. The now from punch laser pulses of the type described that are shot simultaneously on both sides now according to Fig.7.2 (and Fig. 7.4 shown enlarged) a small amount of the fuslonsfahlgen D-tises out of the larger D-ice sphere respectively. condense this amount in the middle of the D-ice sphere and bring this smaller amount "kinetocuclear" (# # 0) for the merger. The fusion energy released is sufficient respectively. it's so measured because; 3 they bring the remaining amount of the D-ice ball to fusion completely can. The surrounding magnetic field ensures the cohesion of the particles during the following i'thersonuklearenH reaction time # (Fig.7.3). You can also go to Execution Fig.6.1.1 proceed by directing the laser pulses shoots next to the D-Ei @ ball and the fusion cores captured with them on the way merges there. The energy released by these nuclei is then used for this purpose to merge previously shot D-ice balls.

According to Fig.7.1, the two laser pulses are in the direction of the field lines shot at the D-ice ball. The injection of the laser pulses can of course also take place transversely to the direction of the field lines and simultaneously from several directions, as indicated in Fig.7.6.

Around an almost spherical enclosure of the fused plasma To obtain, the magnetic coils are designed with a triangular cross-section, as shown in Fig.7.7.

As mentioned, the so-called "ignition pulse" that is introduced first must if possible within the D-ice ball, respectively. in Fig.7.1.1, ground directly next to it. For this reason, the simultaneity for triggering the two (or more) To make the highest demands on laser pulses. To accomplish this task directs one, according to Fig. 8.1, the two laser Qucr pulses from a single laser pulse by deflecting it over two rectangular prisms and two mirrors so that these run against each other on a common optical axis. One can also use a known arrangement according to Fig.8.2, in which the two lasers L2 and L3 are directed antparallel to the reaction chamber. The two lasers Lp and L3 will be switched simultaneously via an auxiliary laser L1 and beam splitter St. The lens system However, outside the reaction chamber is in both versions (Fig.8.1 and 8.2) designed so that the focal points of the two laser pulses in the reaction chamber on each side and in the vicinity of the other optical system.

In the following, an example will be used to examine which Laser pulse energies and heart numbers are individually marked by one after execution Initiate the fusion process described in Fig. 7.1-7.4 for a DT and DD core mixture and to get an output energy of 5000 MWs per laser shot when delivering one single laser shot per second would be an output power in this case of 5000 MW received. That would then correspond to the output of a large power plant.

Example: ... .. .. .. . ...

The one required for an output energy of E = 500 MWs (= 3.1. 1022 MeV) The core number for a DT gas mixture (1: 1) is n = 3.3.1022 MeV / 17.6 MeV / core = 1.76 . 1021 cores. The thermal energy to be supplied to a thermonuclear fusion (= Ignition energy) results in = 3nkTv. (The proportion of ionization energy for plasma formation is relatively small and can be neglected here.) If the volume is assumed for Solid density of frozen DT ice at about 5. 1021 particles / cm3 into the equation for Ez, a volume of about v = results for the required number of nuclei 1.76. 1021/5. 1021 / cm² = 0.35 cm3 = 1/3 cm3. The equation for the one to be introduced Energy is then reduced to Ez = nkT.

With Bolzmann's constant k = 1.38. 10-23 Ws / ° (= 1/11600 eV / °), the absolute temperature T = 2. 1o8 K (= 17.3 KeV) and the one calculated above Core number one therefore needs an energy (= ignition energy, which is applied here by fusion becomes) of: Ez = 1.76. 1021. 1.38. 10-23 Ws / ° K. 2. 108 ° K = 4.8. 106 Ws (= 3. 1019 MeV). The core number) nz required for this results in 3. 1019 MeV / 17.6 MeV / core = 1.7. 108 cores.

The primary "kinetonuclear" laser energy to be used for this core number E1 results from an (assumed) energy expenditure of 0.5 MeV per core (= 5.8 . 109 K) at E1 = 0.5 MeV / nucleus. 1.7. 1018 nuclei = o, 85. 1018MeV or 0.85. 1010 MeV. 1.6. 10-13Ms / MeV = 1.43. 105 Ws.

For other output energies E one needs correspondingly different ones, i.e.

by the same factor larger respectively. smaller laser energies E1, the can be seen from a compilation in Fig. 9. E.g.

for an external energy of E = 5 MWs at the input for the laser ignition pulse an energy of 143 Ws is required. Around loo times the output energy, i.e. 500 1; W to obtain a total of 14,500 Ws would have to be applied as pulse energy from the laser will. This pulse energy could, for example, be divided into 100 lasers of 145 Ws each each laser would only have to emit a single pulse per second in order to to obtain the desired output power of 500 MW. It goes without saying also possible the number of pulses per Second increase so that one gets by with far fewer lasers. With a linear pulse sequence of 100 rounds, for example you could get the same output power per second with a single laser achieve this energy.

For the DD reactions one finds the same calculation scheme as for the DT reactions - the required laser input energies and core numbers for a certain final fusion energy. A compilation for different energy sizes and the core numbers required for this are also from the compilation in Fig. 9 refer to.

The diagram according to Fig. 10 shows the calculated relationships for a Output power up to 10 MWs, at which the required laser energies are currently applied could become.

The product nE # (Fig. 10) has at 2. 108 K (with the same output power E for the DD and DT reaction) for the DT reaction the value nE = 1018cm-3. 8th . 10-3 sec = 8. 1015 sec cm-3 and for the DD reaction the value nE # = 5. 10 @@ cm 3. o, 16 sec = 8. io17 sec cm These values are in the Lawson Diagra, Fig.l1, for T = 2. 1o8K (E = 17.3 KeV) entered. It can be seen from this that the positive The energy balance for the DT reaction is very favorable, d ,.

4 is # 1 and the DD reaction is just reached, i.e. still falls above into the zero curve.

In order to make the energy balance in the DD reaction more favorable one the temperature with the same number of particles or the number of particles with the same Select temperature or both higher, d. H. one would have to use the energy unit of the laser impulses set higher for this reaction.

Figures 12 to 17 are possible designs for Fusion reactors and facilities described using laser pulses and magnetic fields of the type described for the discontinuous release of smaller amounts of fusion energy can be used.

The reaction space and ia cooling medium stored thermal energy as well The relatively rapid pulse sequence makes it possible in all cases to have a continuous one To ensure steam generation (exception: Fig. 1?), So that continuous operation, e.g. to generate electricity.

Since the energy generated in fusion processes is largely due to the Neutrons fall and in order to put them to use, one surrounds the reaction space with a neutron-absorbing medium that also acts as a heat dissipation fir which can serve at the same time as the heat generated by the remaining radiation. For this purpose, the metal is lithium (melting point 186 ° C, specific weight 0.53 Kp / dm3, boiling point 1336 ° C, thermal conductivity number 259 Kcal / mh ° C, spec. Heat o, o86 Kcal / Kg ° C) is most suitable. At the same time, the valuable fuel tritium is obtained, which is produced by deposition from which lithium can be extracted and fed to the reactor as fuel (fusion breeder reactor) (9).

The generation of tritium proceeds according to the following two reaction equations (for Li 6 and Li 7): The helium produced during these processes is eliminated from the work process.

The DD and DT reactions proceed according to the following equations: 1.1) H² + d # He3 (1.0) + p (3.0) # # 7.25 MeV 1.2) H² + d # He³ (0.81) + n (2.44) 2.) H³ + d # 4 (3.5) + / (14.1) # 17.6 MeV n 24.85 MeV The DD reactions 1.1 and 1.2 occur with approximately the same frequency in the D plasma. The values in brackets indicate the energy in MeV.

For the DD reactions it is found that of 7.25 MeV, that of the fusion become free, 2.44 MeV, or 33.6%, on which neutrons fall. If you still take that Secondary reaction 2), the result is even a ratio of 16.54: 24.85, corresponding to 66.7% for the neutron energy component.

Descriptions of the individual design options: Fig.12.1 shows in principle a fusion reactor with heat exchanger including the necessary Ancillary facilities such as; superconducting coils with cooling unit to generate the spherical magnetic confinement field, the injection openings for the Laserixpulse and fuel balls, the pumps with coolers for the injection openings for lasers and fuel, the means for producing the solid fuel balls DT ice, the storage container for the D-fuel, the lb sheath facilities for the generated helium and tritium from the lithium as well as the lithium reservoir and the lithium pump to maintain the heat dissipation circuit via the Heat exchanger.

Made of non-magnetic and heat-resistant material (niobium or nolibdä.n) The reaction vessel produced is double-walled and made of lithium on all sides flows through. The following two outer container layers are used to protect against Gamma quanta (biological shielding) and to prevent unnecessary heat loss (Thermal insulation).

t> ie thermal energy in the working gas (DTHe) generated during the fusion is indirectly via the inner container wall through "heat conduction" to the lithium circuit transferred while the kinetic energy of the released neutrons in lithium is immediately converted into heat; - as stated, tritium is used at the same time generated. So much deuterium and lithium are always produced from the two storage containers taken.

and fed to the two circuits as Reliule 4 is deposited.

The reaction chamber is thus constricted (narrowed) in the middle the superconducting magnet coils (made e.g. from hard tçiobium tin or niobium titanium) Can be made as small as possible and therefore inexpensive. As indicated, the shot of the laser pulses can also be between the two magnetic coils and from several directions at the same time (Fig.12.2).

The design according to Fig.12.3 has a similar structure to that according to Ibb.12.i It differs from it essentially in that it consists of only one Expansion space and the bullet points for.

the laser pulses and fuel on the top of the reaction chamber head are arranged. In this way, the expanding fusion mixture does not occur in this embodiment into the injection points for laser light and fuel supply arrive can and thus avoid damage to the lenses by the hot plasma, the upper magnet coil is made somewhat stronger than the lower one, so that the plasma can only flow downwards, i.e. in the direction of the weaker magnetic field. Next to This measure, as in the execution according to Fig.12.1, the individual bullet tubes the working gas (= fuel) flows through in the direction of the reaction chamber.

Fig. 13 shows the reaction cylinder head on an enlarged scale Fig.12.3. The injection of the laser pulses takes place from the side and can be done with a larger number can be equipped, as can be seen from the sectional view in Fig. 13 is. The laser impulses are fed in from above via mirrors, so that the laser crystals cannot be hit by the neutron radiation and be damaged by it.

The lenses and mirrors are grounded in this arrangement made of quartz glass and the reflective Auflagc made of aluminum oxide, as these materials are known are resistant to neutron radiation. However, it is used in place of a crystal laser a glass laser with types of glass resistant to modern electron radiation are used, then this measure is not applicable.

Outside the ring mirror or the laser crystals is an additional one Protective ring arranged to prevent neutron radiation to the outside.

Will work at the injection openings for laser pulse and fuel gas, however, blown in through longer protective tubes and / or at high pressure, then can also prevent neutron radiation to the outside due to backscattering so that the mirror and protective ring provided there can be omitted and in this Trap any active laser materials placed directly at the bullet points can be.

The inclusion of a fuel ball is with the laser pulse injection Coupled via a control device so that at the time of arrival of the fuel ball on the optical axis, the two laser pulses are triggered simultaneously. To the As indicated, adjustment is a variable timing element between the trigger pulse for the fuel, and the energy supply for the optical pump power of the laser intended. The fusion target power to be generated can be changed by changing the time supplied number of pulses, the pump power or the amount of fuel within wide limits be separated.

Fig.14.1 shows a toroidal fusion reactor of the four (or also more) has bullet points distributed over the circumference of the torus.

This arrangement has the advantage that there are fewer outwardly effective stray fields can occur than is the case with the other versions shown so far. The fuel is here from the laser pulse itself within the torus space during of the bullet and, as shown in Fig. 4.5, additionally with the help of the magnetic field compressed and brought to fusion temperature. The heat generated will be, as before known, dissipated via the lithium, which flows through the double-walled torus. With the design according to Fig. 14.2, the laser pulses are injected in pairs and in opposite directions, as indicated in Figure 4.5 or 4.6.

However, the magnetic field is designed as shown in Fig.5.1-5.2 is. This has the advantage that the working gas is put into circulation in the torus and the heat generated is transferred to the lithium more quickly than when it is stationary Working gas would be the case.

Fig.15.1 also shows a fusion reactor with independent gas circulation with the help of a unilaterally strengthened magnetic field. The funnel-shaped However, the reaction chamber acts as an additional acceleration stage for the thermal energy component, in the mode of operation of a ramjet, so that overall the rotational speed of the working gas (fuel) is increased. That accelerated labor as well the lithium gives off its heat to a common heat exchanger. So no If there is a back pressure at the exit of the heat exchanger, there is an inductive cone AC accelerator provided, which acts as a compressor and the reflux of the hot working gas in prevents the heat exchanger. It is only below the inclusion of the fuel balls Certain circumstances are more advantageous if these are from ### n, i.e. in the direction of gravity, be included in the Realstionskammer. In this case the entire system is set up rotated by 180 °. As indicated in Fig.15.2, the injection of the fuel and the laser pulse also take place via two separate tubes.

Fig. 16 shows a, in principle, complete, fusion power plant in which a reactor according to Fig.6.4 was used. The laser pulses are injected at the time of the highest current rise of the gas discharge, d. i.e. if the density (and heat) of the particles enclosed in the own magnetic field is greatest. the Output power is achieved by changing the number of laser pulses via a signal converter controlled that the target performance is maintained. The heat generated is used for the purpose better Utilization and adaptation to the work equipment in two separate levels - a potassium and a water vapor stage - dismantled and corresponding turbo sets for work performance fed. The electricity generated by electrical generators can be used in an interconnected network be managed. Detailed information can be seen from Fig. 16.

Fig.1? .I shows a fusion reactor in which the individual discontinuous.

The fusion processes that take place directly lead to mechanical work perform by the hot, pressurized working gas created by the fusion process directly a piston in a cylinder (= reaction chamber) - similar to the known Combustion engine, Otto or diesel engine accelerated and the gained work performance but a crank gear and a gas-tight coupling (Fig.17.2) transmits to the outside. The commissioning of this so-called "fusion engine" takes place with the help of a Starter. The starter can also be effective via the magnetic clutch, so that this can be arranged outside the housing.

The trigger signal for the two (or more) on the side of the cylinder head (= Reaction chamber) arranged laser is operated by a on the crank or flywheel applied contact at or around the time of the highest piston level and a switching diode that supplies the electrical current for a flash lamp or laser diode, to generate the laser pulse, switches.

The output power of this fusion engine is controlled via the optical pump power supplied to the lasers, which in turn uses a Energy converter and a setpoint adjuster can be changed in size.

When the piston is low, the combustion product (the helium and most of the unused, fusible D-gas) into one on the side connected to the cylinder and passes from there into an inductive Gas accelerator that feeds the gas back into the reaction space after it has passed a separator flo.3 and its combustion product helium 4 was freed.

In the following operation, the piston moves up and again compresses the fusible working gas that has flowed into the upper part of the cylinder. The now re-triggered and in the compressed working gas shot in Laser pulses bring @@@ tot n $ ei a certain amount of D-gas, which is in the two Cavities in which laser pulses have accumulated, in the midst of the magnetic field for fusion, etc..

The fusion engine is poured out of a storage container with D-gas.

There is always as much D-gas added to the working gas circuit as helium is deposited. The D-gas can be carried or carried as such directly can be obtained on the spot by means of electrolysis from heavy water (D20).

The energy of the neutrons released during the DD busion, the total 33.6% of the total energy is used in less powerful systems by one massive, neutron-absorbing cylinder jacket (e.g. from beryllium compounds BeO or iSeC; Melting point 2000 ° C) and the resulting heat discharged to the outside. The cylinder jacket can - especially with powerful Hotor- also double-walled and made of a neutron-absorbing medium; e.g. with water, potassium, sodium or lithium flowing through them. The generated In this case, heat can be better dissipated and possibly also for further use, for example for heating purposes.

To generate a thermal output power of, for example l2 KWs (including neutron energy) must be used in this fusion engine (with single-stage reaction sequence according to Fig. 4.5-4.6 and delivery of 10 laser pulses per Second and distribution between two lasers with a DD reaction) approx. 80 per laser shot Where are spent (see table Fig.9 for the DD reaction). Here was of it assumed that an energy of 0.5 MeV must be expended per grain and one To bring about "kinetonuclear fusion" in which twO is (instead of 17.3 KeV energy expenditure per core in "thermonuclear fusion" where # = 4 would be 4 seconds So around 500 KeV / 17.3 KeV = 29 times the energy is expended here.) If the energy losses of 33.6% resulting from the DD reaction are taken into account arise as a result of the migration of neutrons and not directly in the case of the fusion engine can be used, there is still an effective thermal output energy of 12 KWs. (1-o, 336) = 8 KWs. Due to the poor efficiency, this energy can which is present in thermal engines, only about 1/3 in mechanical work output implemented, i.e. 6 8 KWs / 3 = 2.67 KWs.

*) It is possible with essential. less energy, at which # becomes small enough to turn the fusion motor according to Fig.17.

operate. When producing suitable laser pulses At the moment, at least 90% of the energy is still lost, d. H. 72 Ws per laser shot. The energy gain, in the form of mechanical work, results after subtracting this Losses then to 2670 Ws - (lo. 72 WS. 2) = 1530 Ws.

With the total energy converted into mechanical work performance 2.67 kWs results for the fusion engine, according to Fig. 17, even with a single-stage Reaction sequence has a positive energy balance, in which #> 1 is: «1 = Nab / Nzu = 2670 Ws / 144o Ws = 1.8. (with an energy consumption of 50 KeV / core) For a two-stage Reaction sequence, according to Fig. 9, one would get a much higher efficiency, since not more laser energy had to be used than with the one-step reaction process, according to Fig. 17 respectively. according to Fig.4.5-4.6, is the case. on the one hand, a two-stage reaction process in the fusion motor (reaction head according to the design in Fig. 13) would result on the basis of this the same requirements (energy supply of 0.5 MeV / core, i.e. ## 0) as for a one-stage reaction process' an efficiency of: al = Nab / Nzu = 250,000 Ws / 1440 Ws. 29 = 6.

(with an energy expenditure of 500 KeV / core for the ones shown in Fig. 12-16 The specified exemplary embodiments result in a significantly more favorable degree of efficiency than in the example shown after jibb.17, since the energy of the neutrons is here directly can be used and for the ignition of the second reaction stage for the animal monuclear The course of the reaction (due to the reaction time t available here) is essential less energy has to be applied for the laser pulses than for a "kinetonuclear" one Ignition process ", where ## is 0.

For the energy values calculated in the list in Fig one for the DD and DT reaction with a plant efficiency (# conversion of thermal energy into electrical energy) of t = 30% and a laser efficiency of a total of qL = 10%, an efficiency in the DD reaction of: Nab E. #total 5. 106 ws. 0.3 # DD = = = = 46, Nto 1 1 3.26. 10³.

Tbsp. 0.1 # L and b.i the DT reaction of: Nab E. #total 5. 106 Ws. 0.3 # DT ===== 1050.

1 1 Nto tbsp. 143.

# L 0,1 In the best case, the described, two-stage reaction process around looo times more energy in the form of electrical work can be obtained than has to be expended in total by means of a laser.

30 liters of natural water contain ig deuterium. This quantity corresponds to an energy content of 90,000 kWn. Have for comparison, for example 30 liters of petrol only 38.4 kWh. The energy content of deuterium that is in 30 liters of water is therefore around 2350 times higher than that of 3o liters of petrol. aside from that the fuel costs for the fusion engine described are around 1,000 times lower than that of the current gasoline engine for the same performance (calculated with a price of DM 250, - per kg of D20 with 2% H2O contamination and DM o.6o per liter of petrol).

The heavy water cost (D20) for the fusion engine is against the gasoline cost so negligibly small in the case of a gasoline engine, so that it can be used to assess its weather competitiveness the capital costs (= acquisition costs plus fuel costs) of the two vehicles to be compared: The current gasoline-powered car costs during its service life about as much fuel as its acquisition cost.

The price share of the motor alone is about 1/4 of the acquisition cost of the complete Falirzeuges. To the fusion engine because of its negligible fuel costs to come to the same capital costs as with the current gasoline engine Fusion engine cost four times more than the current gasoline engine for the same Power.

In terms of environmental protection, the fusion engine is the petrol engine far superior. The fusion engine does not leave any pollution behind.

On the contrary: The 80% weight fraction bound in heavy water Oxygen is and can be released when the D-gas is obtained (electrolysis) can be used to freshen up the surrounding air.

The deuterium content of the world's oceans became today's energy needs of humanity (annual requirement on average about 1014 k ', Yh) for over 1 billion years can cover.

Claims (7)

Claims. 1) Fusion reactor with discontinuous energy release in small dosed Hengen of a fusible hydrogen isotope mixture (HDTHe3 nuclei) and bringing about the fusion gate by means of lasers, characterized in that Laser pulses with compressive properties are used by the one Laser impulses self-dosed amount, according to their available energy content, take in, with at least two or more such pairs of pulses in one Magnet teld and are shot together within a reaction chamber, wherein the magnetic field generated in the reaction chamber with a spherical geometry expands spherically during fusion and the energy generated by the reaction duct designed as a heat exchanger or expansion chamber is taken up and is available for further utilization. 2) fusion reactor according to claim 1, characterized in that the The core number to be fused by means of laser pulses either on the entry scale within the reaction space from the pulse cavity directly from the working gas is absorbed, or the same amount together with another, from a larger one Fuel supply is removed (punched out) and this amount in terms of their "Kinetonuclear" released energy is dimensioned in such a way that it absorbs the remaining Amount of fuel within its spherical magnetic enclosure completely can bring about "thermonuclear" fusion (two-stage reaction process in one single magnetic inclusion). 3) fusion reactor according to claim 2, characterized in that the one- or two-step fusion process taking place in a single magnetic confinement triggers a second fusion process immediately in a second magnetic inclusion and so on, the second or third fusion process indela with the preceding one Fusion is ignited as a result of the expansion of the magnetic confinement, for the purpose of the released fusion energy. with the same laser energy supplied on the primary side to increase under controlled conditions, d. H. the ratio of delivered to improve traction-led energy. 4) Fuaionsreaktor according to claim 3, characterized in that the in one or more stages, temporally separated fusion processes in a magnetic field which becomes weaker from stage to stage and the fusion substance (Working gas) expands in this prescribed and desired direction. 5) fusion reactor according to claim 1-4, characterized in that the hydrogen isotope mixture intended for fusion either in the solid (supercooled), gaseous or already in the plasma state and either by the laser pulses itself (in the gaseous state) is brought into a static magnetic field or it is shot directly from the outside in a solid shape (e.g. in a spherical shape), or by a dynamic magnetic field, originally in a gaseous state Plasma is compressed and discontinuous in small amounts for bombardment means the said laser pulses is made available. 6) fusion reactor according to claims 1-5, characterized in that the intended to bring about the fusion laser pulses with compressing and focusing Properties on the other end face indented in a conical, parabolic or cylindrical shape are and over their entire length one in the radial direction towards the pulse axis symmetrical energy gradient respectively. Have photon density and this are so focused when bombarded in opposite directions in pairs that their focal points mutually overlap on the common optical axis. 7) fusion reactor according to claims 1-6, characterized in that the Reaction chamber directly to generate mechanical power from fusion heat is designed in the manner of an explosion piston engine and the reaction chamber Is designed with one or two walls, or the reaction chamber in the manner of a If: neaustausches is carried out and the shape of a cylinder, ring torus, ramjet engine or a hollow sphere and to accommodate a neutron- or heat-absorbing Liquid $ (e.g. lithium potassium, sodium or water from at least two or also consists of several walls, for the purpose of making different ones from one another separate heat circuits with different work equipment @ and different Temperatures.