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CIF is SafeCavitation-induced fusion (CIF) is inherently safe. Unlike conventional nuclear fission, fusion cannot result in runaway nuclear chain reactions. The specifics of CIF process is such that the reactor will quench itself and shutdown if cooling system fails. Thus, a fusion power plant is not susceptible to a terror strike or a Fukushima-type disaster. No Radioactive WasteUnlike conventional nuclear power CIF does not result in radioactive waste that needs to be protected, stored and recycled. While operating CIF reactor will produce potentially harmful neutron radiation, but the neutron flux stops the second reactor is shut down. Due to the simplicity of CIF reactor design the neutron flux can be easily screened by a layer of polyethylene or by ordinary water. Neutron moderation with the help of water or liquid hydrocarbons will allow harvesting additional energy from the reactor and prevent harmful (and potentially radioactive) transmutations that plague conventional 'big fusion' designs. Because the neutron flux from the CIF reactor is much lower than from the 'big fusion' designs neutron stress and materials problems that haunt traditional ignition-based approaches do not apply in CIF case. No Tritium NecessaryTritium is a mildly radioactive isotope of hydrogen that is universally believed to be the most coveted fusion fuel by virtue of high likelihood of fusion reaction. Tritium beta-decays into helium-3 and is harmful to human health when inhaled or ingested. However, beta radiation is easily screened by any substance (including air), which makes it possible to use tritium in consumer products (sights, watches, illumination). CIF design does not require tritium for operation, although tritium will be produced as a byproduct of deuterium fusion reactions. The generated tritium will be, however, consumed in subsequent fusion reactions thus resulting in moderate increase in power output (more efficient reactor operation) with time. Additional Materials |
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