Target/Blanket Conceptual Designs for the Los Alamos Accelerator Transmutation of Nuclear Waste (ATW) Concept

Two target designs and one blanket design are discussed for the Los Alamos Accelerator Transmutation of Nuclear Waste concept. The blanket design presented includes heavy water moderator and piping systems used to contain fission products and actinide streams for transmutation to stable isotopes. A flowing liquid metal target offers the advantage of direct convection of the high heat generation and the possibility for a windowless design. Experiments will be required to test the target design and determine compatibility of the container material. Pumping and heat-transfer equipment will also require research and development. A solid target made of a combination of tungsten and lead offers the advantage of straightforward engineering design, but will require a window between the accelerator and the target.