Activation and Environmental Aspects of ARIES-ACT1 Power Plant

Abstract

This paper reports the main results of the activation analysis of the ARIES-ACT1 power plant and its attractive environmental characteristics. The approach aims at examining several activation-related effects that influence the neutron-induced radioactivity, decay heat, waste classification, recyclability, and clearability of radioactive materials. Detailed studies are presented and provide information about the interdependence of material choices and activation response functions. It is also shown how the activation analysis can help address the inboard decay heat problem, one of the most important safety-related issues for tokamaks, and point the way to proper solutions through redefining the radial build to meet the design needs. Furthermore, the study suggests an integral management strategy to change what is now a costly waste disposal concern for fusion into a valued commodity via the further development of the recycling and clearance approaches.