Direct fission fragment energy conversion utilizing magnetic collimation

The objective of this dissertation was to determine the technological feasibility of direct fission fragment energy conversion utilizing magnetic collimation (DFFEC-MC). This objective was accomplished by producing a conceptual design for a DFFEC-MC system and by analysis of the potential DFFEC-MC system performance.; Consistent analysis and evaluation of the technological feasibility of the DFFEC-MC concept were achieved using state-of-the-art computer codes that allowed realistic and consistent modeling of the important physical processes governing DFFEC-MC system performance. Unique computational schemes, including three-dimensional modeling, were constructed and applied to obtain the performance characteristics of DFFEC-MC systems. Special effort was made to include all important physical processes. Important simplifications introduced due to modeling limitations were also assessed.; The analysis takes into consideration a wide range of operational aspects including fission fragment (FF) escape from the fuel, FF collimation, FF collection, criticality, long-term performance, energy conversion efficiency, heat removal, and safety characteristics. Required engineering conditions are formulated that must be satisfied in order for the DFFEC-MC concept to have a reasonable chance to demonstrate technological feasibility. Specific characteristics of individual system components and the entire DFFEC-MC system are evaluated. To identify which technological improvements are needed, several possible design solutions are provided for some of the components along with analyses of the corresponding DFFEC-MC system performance.; As a result of the computational analysis, the conditions for achieving an attractive (high) system efficiency are demonstrated. A technologically feasible DFFEC-MC system layout with promising operational characteristics is presented. The resulting DFFEC-MC system is envisioned as an advanced DFFEC system that combines advantageous design solutions proposed for application in both fission and fusion reactors. The analysis identifies possible application areas where the DFFEC-MC system might be competitive with other advanced direct and indirect energy conversion systems. To bring closer the time when the DFFEC-MC systems might become a reality, design challenges and required experimental studies are indicated.