Feasibility study of an intense D–T fusion source: “The New Sorgentina”

• A feasibility study for an intense D–T 14 MeV neutron source is presented.
• It relies upon the use of T and D ion beams impinging on 2 m radius rotating targets.
• Neutron fluence rate in the order of 1 × 1013 n cm−2 s−1 over about 50 cm3 effective volume can be achieved.
• Applications ranging from neutron-induced damage in materials (1–2 dpa/y) to influence of nuclear transmutation on the electric characteristics of ceramic insulators, optical fibers and window materials and study of radiation hardness of diagnostics are realized.

The international community agrees on the importance to build a large facility devoted to test and validate materials to be used in harsh neutron environments. Such a facility, proposed by ENEA, reconsiders a previous study known as “Sorgentina” but takes into account new technological development so far attained. The “New Sorgentina” Fusion Source (NSFS) project is based upon an intense D–T 14 MeV neutron source achievable with T and D ion beams impinging on 2 m radius rotating targets. NSFS produces about 1 × 1013 n cm−2 s−1 over about 50 cm3. Larger volumes of lower neutron flux will be available (e.g. for TBM experiments) as well as collimated channels to study some features of the ITER neutron camera. The NSFS facility will overcome problems related to the ion source and accelerating system, by means of an upgraded version of the JET–PINI ion beams. NSFS has to be intended as an European facility that may be realized in a few years, once provided a preliminary technological program devoted to the operation of the ion source in continuous mode, target heat loading/removal, target and tritium handling, inventory as well as site licensing. In this contribution, the main characteristics of NSFS project will be presented.