Description
The need of a neutron source for the qualification of materials to be used in future fusion power reactors have been recognized in the European fusion program since many years. The construction and exploitation of this facility is presently considered to be in the critical path for the realization of the Fusion Demonstration Power Plant (DEMO). This neutron source should be able to produce enough neutrons to allow for accelerated testing of the materials up to the expected End of Life in a volume big enough to allow the measurement of engineering relevant properties. IFMIF-DONES (International Fusion Materials Irradiation Facility – DEMO Oriented Neutron Source) will be the neutron source that can provide conditions such as anticipated for DEMO. This is achieved by utilizing Li(d,xn) nuclear reactions taking place in a liquid Li target when bombarded by a deuteron beam.
Apart from the infrastructure dedicated to the qualification of materials for the fusion program IFMIF-DONES will also host several complementary experimental facilities. A versatile collimated neutron beam experimental area will allow implementation of neutron scattering and neutron induced reaction experiments, as well as biological and industrial application of neutrons. A dedicated deuteron beam line using a fraction of the initial beam impinging on a secondary target is planned for a neutron Time-of-Flight facility. The production of radioisotopes for medical applications in neutron or deuteron induced reactions is also considered.
The start of construction of IFMIF-DONES is expected in 2023, its commissioning and start of operation will take place in early 2030’s.