Nuclear fusion perspectives

Physical conditions for D-T fusion reactions in hot plasmas are reviewed, showing the difference between inertial and magnetic confinement. The principles of muon-catalized fusion are given as an example of alternative approach. The main features of the tokamak, i.e. the magnetically-confined plasma configuration which is most investigated in reactor studies are described. ITER, a 500 MW th tokamak reactor design, is an international project and represents the single step toward a DEMO, a demonstration electricity-generating fusion power station. Safety and environmental aspects of tokamak reactors, in particular their inherent safety, were investigated in the E.C. Safety and Environmental Assessment of Fusion Power-Phase 2 (SEAFP-2). Management options for tritiated -activated fusion waste are described, either with disposal in fission waste repositories, or according to other concepts. Data on fusion cost and time schedule are given.