Innovative, Low Viscosity, Radiation-Resistant Insulation Systems for Fusion Magnets

50770-98-I Innovative, Low Viscosity, Radiation-Resistant Insulation Systems for Fusion Magnets--Composite Technology Development, Inc., 1505 Coal Creek Drive, Lafayette, CO 80026-2782; (303) 664-0394 Dr. Naseem A. Munshi, Principal Investigator Dr. Naseem A. Munshi, Business Official DOE Grant No. DE-FG03-98ER82554 Amount: $75,000 Superconducting fusion magnets require the use of insulation systems capable of withstanding significant mechanical loads at cryogenic temperatures while also enduring high doses of neutron and gamma radiation. Because of the increasing demands placed on the insulation system during operation, the insulation is a very critical component in need of improved performance. In addition, new magnet designs have made the processing requirements of insulation systems an important factor since the most easily processed systems do not meet these criteria. The objective of this project is to develop, formulate, and characterize new, organic resin insulation systems that are suitable for use in a vacuum pressure impregnation (VPI) fabrication process for superconducting magnets used in fusion devices. The new resin systems will be formulated and evaluated for their processing properties (such as viscosity, pot-life and cure), mechanical and electrical properties, and gas evolution during irradiation. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: The development of new insulation for superconducting magnets which are more radiation resistant and can still be easily processed will benefit current magnet manufacturers as well as future fusion magnet designers. New materials that withstand higher doses of radiation will allow newer, more efficient designs of fusion magnets, providing new, efficient energy._