Neutron poison distribution in the central reflector to reduce the DLOFC temperature of a Th-LEU fueled OTTO PBMR DPP-400 core

Thermoelectrics for nuclear fusion reactors: opportunities and challenges

“…126 For long lasting neutron absorption, isotopes 176 Hf to 179 Hf all remain chemically unchanged when absorbing neutrons, while 180 Hf absorbs a neutron to form 181 Hf which beta-decays to form 181 Ta. 127 Therefore, to avoid excessive degradation of TE properties under neutron irradiation, usage of B 4 C as TE materials may require neutron shielding on the plasma-facing side with a layer of Hf, which is unfortunately a high-activating element. Such a TE device would be a highly effective neutron shield, which can be useful when placed in front of windows for neutron-sensitive diagnostics in the fusion reactor.…”