Overview of liquid metal TBM concepts and programs

In support of the ITER Test Blanket Module (TBM) program and coordinated by the Test Blanket Working Group, ITER party members have been focusing on the liquid metal blanket design concepts, most of which have been extensively explored. For the demonstration power reactor (DEMO) design, we will have to accommodate the neutron wall loading and first wall heat flux, breed and extract adequate tritium for the D-T fuel cycle and achieve high coolant outlet temperature for high power conversion efficiency. Most proposed liquid metal TBMs have the potential of achieving similar DEMO goals and requirements. Furthermore, all liquid metal TBMs are to satisfy ITER safety requirements and to be operated and tested within ITER operation scenarios. For the development of liquid metal TBM concepts, many R&D elements are common to a few designs such as the areas of Reduced Activation Ferritic/Martensitic Steel (RAFM, also abbreviated as FS in the following) or V-alloy fabrication, thermal fluid MHD, FS/PbLi, FS/Li and V-alloy/Li compatibility, irradiation effects on different materials, tritium extraction, SiC flow channel insert (FCI) development, etc. With a well-coordinated ITER TBM program, different parties’ R&D activities can supplement and complement each other via collaborations. This paper will present respective designs and R&D programs from seven ITER parties.