Ponente
Descripción
Andrzej J. Zaleski
The commercial viability of next-generation fusion reactors, such as DEMO and Fusion Pilot
Plant, relies heavily on high-field superconducting magnets. During operation, these systems
will be exposed to an unprecedented, intense flux of fast (14 MeV) neutrons, which cause severe
radiation damage, microstructural degradation, and a subsequent decline in critical parameters
Tc, Hc2, Jc.
To address this critical issue, we propose to establish DONES-SCMag, a dedicated research
facility integrated into the IFMIF-DONES infrastructure in Granada. Moving beyond standard
post-irradiation examinations (PIE), this laboratory will feature a pioneering capability for realtime,
in-operando characterization of both superconducting materials (HTS/LTS) and
functional components (e.g. prototype coils, high-current cables, and joints) directly exposed
to the neutron flux. The facility will allow continuous monitoring of the voltage-current V-I
characteristics, magnetic flux penetration, and quench dynamics under high magnetic fields and
cryogenic temperatures (4.2 K – 77 K) during on-going neutron irradiation.
A key engineering focus of the laboratory will be addressing the extreme conditions of in-situ
testing, specifically mitigating intense nuclear heating within the insertion cryostats and
monitoring the severe activation of stabilizer and structural materials (e.g. copper, silver, and
steel alloys) under the fast neutron flux.
This initiative is envisioned to be driven by a Polish-led scientific collaboration combining
expertise in low-temperature physics, materials science, and cryogenic engineering, which
could in the future form the nucleus of a broader consortium. The Institute of Low Temperature
and Structure Research in Wrocław (INTiBS), incorporating research groups specializing in
superconductivity and high magnetic fields, would take a leading role, together with potential
partners such as the Wrocław University of Science and Technology (WUST), in developing
specialized cryogenic transport systems, insertion cryostats, and advanced magnetometry. The
collaboration could be further complemented by the Institute of Nuclear Physics in Kraków
(IFJ PAN), which would contribute expertise in nuclear engineering, radiation transport
modelling, and neutron dosimetry. Such a group could subsequently seek collaboration with
leading international fusion laboratories, with the long-term aim of creating a global hub for the
validation of superconducting magnet technologies for clean energy generation.
The forthcoming presentation will detail the physical challenges associated with deploying
superconducting materials (HTS/LTS) and functional components within a fast neutron
irradiation environment. Furthermore, it will outline the critical parameters that must be
monitored to accurately characterize the degradation of their functional properties. Finally, a
conceptual design for the DONES-SCMag facility, along with a strategy for its integration into
the IFMIF-DONES infrastructure, will be proposed.