Micro‐thermonuclear AB‐reactors for aviation

Abstract

Purpose

The paper's aim is to suggest a new micro‐thermonuclear reactor for aerospace.

Design/methodology/approach

Methods of the thermonuclear physics are used for the research.

Findings

The result is new micro‐thermonuclear reactor with very small fuel pellet that uses plasma confinement generated by multi‐reflection of laser beam or its own magnetic field. The Lawson criterion increases by hundreds of times. The author also suggests a new method of heating the power‐making fuel pellet by outer electric current as well as new direct method of transformation of ion kinetic energy into harvestable electricity. These offered innovations dramatically decrease the size, weight and cost of thermonuclear reactor, installation, propulsion system and electric generator.

Practical implications

The author is researching the efficiency of these innovations for two types of the micro‐thermonuclear reactors: multi‐reflection reactor (inertial confinement fusion) and self‐magnetic reactor (magnetic confinement fusion).

Originality/value

The author offers several innovations. Results may be used for the design of thermonuclear aerospace engines, propulsion and electric generators.

Citation

Bolonkin, A. (2007), "Micro‐thermonuclear AB‐reactors for aviation", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 79 No. 6, pp. 646-665. https://doi.org/10.1108/00022660710829845