Invention Reference Number
This technology provides a tritium-compatible pellet injector fuel source designed for plasma fueling in fusion energy systems. The system enables continuous pellet formation and delivery at cryogenic temperatures, addressing challenges in reliability, material compatibility, and continuous operation under extreme conditions. By improving pellet production and handling, this invention supports advancements in continuous fusion energy performance.
Description
Oak Ridge National Laboratory has developed a cryogenic screw extruder system designed to produce hydrogen isotope pellets for use in plasma fueling and edge-localized mode (ELM) control. The extruder continuously converts gaseous hydrogen isotopes into solid form under cryogenic conditions and extrudes them into a steady solid ribbon from which uniform pellets can be formed. The design incorporates specialized materials and interfaces that allow for compatibility with tritium environments, ensuring safe and reliable continuous operation. Rotational and mechanical components are engineered to withstand radiation exposure, utilizing radiation-resistant lubricants or inert purge gases to maintain integrity. This innovation provides a continuous and controllable method of pellet production suitable for high-performance fusion energy facilities and fusion research.
Benefits
- Enables continuous pellet formation for efficient plasma fueling.
- Compatible with tritium fuel environments.
- Enhances reliability under high-radiation and cryogenic conditions.
- Reduces maintenance and operational downtime in fusion reactor environments.
Applications and Industries
- Fusion energy research and future fusion reactors.
- Plasma control systems for experimental and commercial fusion reactors.
- Cryogenic process engineering and hydrogen isotope handling technologies.
Contact
To learn more about this technology, email partnerships@ornl.gov or call 865-574-1051.
