Laboratory Microfusion Facility-neutronics and radiological safety analysis

The primary goal of the Laboratory Microfusion Facility (LMF) is to conduct some 1400 target experiments over a five-year period to demonstrate high gain in the laboratory. Projected yields for these experiments range from <10 MJ to 1000 MJ. Two design goals that minimize the effect of radiation hazards on the operation of the facility have been set. The first is that LMF workers will have access to the diagnostic platforms outside the target chamber within 24 h after a high-yield shot. This is necessary for retrieving data and preparing for the next experiment. Although it is plausible that routine interior chamber operations may be done remotely, workers may occasionally require access to the inside of the chamber for special tasks. Therefore, the second design goal is that workers can safely enter the chamber for a short time seven days after a high-yield experiment. Radiological safety studies covering beam tube activation, final optics activation, neutron heating of a diagnostic, electromagnetic pulse (EMP) generation, radiation shielding, and tritium recovery/disposal issues are reported.<>