Direct energy conversion from p+Li-7 fusion reaction?

In summary, for direct energy conversion in a fusion reaction involving p+Li-7, a method with charge separation is most suitable. This involves separating the positively charged nuclei and electrons, which are then collected separately to provide a current across the load. Alternatively, a magnetic confinement system could be used with a divertor or leaking mirror to separate the alphas and electrons.
  • #1
Sven Andersson
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I have a question about direct energy conversion; if I want to directly extract electrical energy from the fusion reaction p+Li-7 reaction which generates He nuclei, with a kinetic energy of 8 MeV, what is the most suitable method of doing that?

Should some method with charge separation be used or perhaps some method with magnetic fields, like the inverse cyclotron converter, of Tri Alpha Energy?

Sven
 
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  • #2
Sven Andersson said:
Should some method with charge separation be used or perhaps some method with magnetic fields,
Yes. For direct energy conversion, one basically has to separate the positively charged nuclei and electrons. Both are collected separately, and the electrons would provide the current across the load. Magnetic confinement systems require some kind of 'divertor', or otherwise a leaking mirror, e.g., in a tandem mirror device, in which some of the alphas (and electrons) leak out and the alphas and electrons are separated.
 

Related to Direct energy conversion from p+Li-7 fusion reaction?

1. What is direct energy conversion from p+Li-7 fusion reaction?

Direct energy conversion from p+Li-7 fusion reaction is a process that directly converts the energy released from the fusion of a proton and a lithium-7 nucleus into electricity. This is achieved through the use of specialized materials and techniques that can efficiently capture and convert the energy into usable electrical power.

2. How does direct energy conversion from p+Li-7 fusion reaction work?

This process works by using a material called a direct energy converter (DEC) which is placed in the path of the fusion reaction. When the proton and lithium-7 nucleus fuse, high energy particles and radiation are released, which then interact with the DEC to produce an electric current. This current can then be harnessed and used to power devices or systems.

3. What are the advantages of direct energy conversion from p+Li-7 fusion reaction?

One of the main advantages of this process is that it is a direct conversion of energy, meaning there are no intermediate steps or conversions required. This makes it a highly efficient and potentially less expensive method of producing electricity. Additionally, the fuel for this reaction, lithium-7, is abundant and readily available.

4. Are there any challenges associated with direct energy conversion from p+Li-7 fusion reaction?

Yes, there are several challenges that need to be addressed in order for this process to be viable on a large scale. These include finding materials that can withstand the high energy particles and radiation produced, as well as developing efficient and cost-effective DEC technologies. There are also technical challenges in controlling the fusion reaction and managing the high temperatures and pressures involved.

5. Is direct energy conversion from p+Li-7 fusion reaction currently being used?

While there have been successful experiments and demonstrations of this process, it is not yet being used on a large scale to produce electricity. Research and development efforts are ongoing to address the challenges and make this technology commercially viable. It is currently considered a promising potential source of clean and sustainable energy for the future.

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