Abstract
A spherical torus based volumetric neutron source
(ST-VNS) concept has been developed as a possible
intermediate step to develop the necessary technology for
reactor components of future fusion power plants. Such a
VNS would complement ITER in testing, developing and
qualifying nuclear technology components. Two recently
designconcepts for a spherical torus based VNS have been
investigated. The initial design operated at 39 MW fusion
power with a 0.8 m major radius yielding an average
neutron wall loading of 1 MW/ m '. A higher fusion power
(326 MW) ST-VNS design was conceived by increasing the
major radius to 1.07 m yielding an average neutron wall
loading of 5 MW/ m '. In this paper, we report the results
of the neutronics analyses of this high power design along
with several design modifications including the effects of
using ITER materials in the key components. The results of
a feasibility study of using the ST-VNS with suitably designed
blankets to provide an intense neutron source for neutron
science applications is also reported.