The thermionic fuel element verification program: Technical progress and future plans

Abstract

The goal of the Thermionic Fuel Element Verification Program (TFEVP) is to demonstrate the technological readiness of a Thermionic Fuel Element (TFE) suitable for use as the basic element in a thermionic reactor having an electric power output in the 0.5‐ to 5‐MWe range and a full‐power life of seven years. The TFEVP has made significant progress in developing components capable of withstanding the required neutron fluence (4×1022 n/cm2, E≳0.1 MeV) and the required burnup (5.3%). Technology developed under the TFEVP also supports the 5‐ to 40‐kWe thermionic systems currently of interest to the Strategic Defense Initiative Organization and the United States Air Force. The fast‐neutron flux in certain 5‐ to 40‐kWe systems is up to a factor of five less than that in 0.5‐ to 5‐MWe system. Component technology that has been developed for 0.5‐ to 5‐MWe systems will thus be suitable for use in long‐life, high‐performance, 5‐ to 40‐kWe systems. Components that are being developed by the TFEVP include insulator se...