Fusion Applications and Market Evaluation (FAME) Study

Abstract : This report discusses the known applications of fusion energy and estimates possible market. Because fusion reactors can generate surplus neutrons (10 times greater than fusion), other valuable products can be made besides thermal energy for electrical power. The purpose of this study was to explore the many other products that could result from neutronic interactions, from the volumetric nature of nuclear heating, and from use of electromagnetic and charged particle energy. Even with other products being sold, electricity is the major product of the neutron thermal energy and sale of it is generally required for acceptable economics. Other products that are either unique to fusion or can be generated in great quantities that are otherwise unattainable are: (1) fissile fuels; (2) tritium; (3) radioisotopes; especially cobalt 60; and (4) some rare metals. In particular, the market for cobalt 60 is expected to grow substantially as the food irradiation industry matures. To a limited extent, the fusion neutrons might also be used to transmute fission waste and for radiation testing sources. Thermal energy from fusion reactors can be used fro nonelectrical applications such as synthetic fuel production, industrial process heat, and district heating. Inherently safe reactor designs with low activity materials could be sited near the thermal energy user. Finally, in the long term, the high energy content of fusion fuel makes it an interesting possibility as a power source for deep space missions.