Materials applications for magnetic fusion

Advanced fusion devices will require that materials in various applications perform adequately under combinations of thermal and mechanical loads, electric and magnetic fields and neutron radiation. This article illustrates several aspects of materials technology for fusion by focusing on three major components-first wall structures, blankets, and large superconducting magnets. In describing the first wall, with armor and limiters, the central theme is potential effects from the severe operating environment which includes intense surface heat and bombardment by energetic atoms and high-energy neutrons. In the respective sections on blanket materials and on superconducting magnets, compatibility among materials and fabrication requirements are emphasized. While the mechanical, electrical or neutronic properties of materials can fulfill the primary performance requirements in specific materials applications, overall system requirements such as those for compatibility and appropriate fabrication techniques must also be satisfied in selecting and developing materials.