Novel Radiation-Resistant Insulation Systems for Fusion Magnets

60742 Magnet systems for Next Step Option (NSO) fusion devices will require insulation systems that can tolerate exposure to high levels of radiation as well as cryogenic and elevated temperatures. Currently available insulation systems either will not meet these requirements, or will compromise the magnet system design or economics to such an extent as to make them unfeasible. In this project, new hybrid organic polymer insulation systems will be developed, enabling more practical and economical magnet systems to be designed and built. In Phase I, new hybrid organic systems with the promise of improved radiation resistance were demonstrated to provide suitable processing and performance characteristics meeting NSO requirements. Systems suitable for vacuum-pressure impregnation, pre-impregnated tape, and high-pressure laminates were evaluated. Radiation exposure results are expected early in Phase II. In Phase II, the new hybrid systems will be further optimized and characterized, before and after exposure to radiation, and validated as suitable for NSO applications such as FIRE and NCSX. Extensive testing will be performed to provide relevant engineering data, and practical manufacturing techniques will be developed through the construction and testing of magnet sub-assemblies. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: New hybrid insulation resin systems should have commercial benefit in fusion, high energy physics, and commercial magnet applications. Furthermore, these new resin systems could be used as the basis of other products, such as fiber-reinforced composites and adhesives.