Development of novel radiation-resistant insulation systems for fusion magnets

The development of higher performance composite insulation systems for use in fusion magnets has been an important goal for the fusion community in recent years. Next Step Option (NSO) fusion devices, such as the Fusion Ignition Research Experiment (FIRE), are being designed with the assumption that new, better performing insulation systems will be available at the time of magnet manufacture. To address these concerns, Composite Technology Development, Inc. (CTD) has developed a new class of organic composite insulation systems designed not only to meet the performance criteria of these new magnets, but also to meet the fabrication challenges that will be encountered during magnet fabrication. These new systems, based on previous work with cyanate ester resin systems, have been developed with a focus on increased radiation-resistance, ease of processing and fabrication, and mechanical and electrical strength at cryogenic and elevated temperatures. New resin systems have been developed to enable a broad range of insulation application methods including vacuum pressure impregnation (VPI) and preimpregnation. Processing information on these systems, along with their mechanical and electrical properties will be presented.