Transmutation of long-lived fission products driven by D-T and D-D fusion: Specific neutronics and radiological consequences

In view of the poor transmutation environments in fission reactors, elimination of long-lived fission products (FPs) remains an unresolved problem in the quest for a harmonized nuclear energy system. Since plasma fusion technology could provide effective neutron support, it is important to elaborate the qualities, features, and dimensions of a fusion neutron source exclusively oriented to FP transmutation, and this forms the main objective of this paper. Recent trends infusion technology are examined to shape the conceptual blanket design features for D-T- and D-D-driven transmuters that match the demanding set of transmutation requirements. Material behavior under neutron irradiation in these blankets constitutes the central issue underlying this paper and yields the operational limits and radiological cost of FP incineration.