Coolant Options and Critical Heat Flux Issues in Fusion Reactor Divertor Design

Abstract

This paper reviews cooling aspects of the diverter system in Tokamak fusion devices with primary emphasis on the critical heat flux (CHF) issues for oater-cooled designs. General characteristics of four (4) coolant options for diverter cooling gases, oater, liquid metal, and organic liquid - are discussed first, focusing on the comparison of advantages and disadvantages of those options. Then results of recent studies on the high-heat-flux CHF of water at subcooled high-velocity conditions are reviewed to provide a general idea on the feasibility of the water-cooled diverter concept for future Tokamak fusion reactors. Water is assessed to be the most viable and practical coolant option for diverters of future experimental Tokamaks.