Mechanical response and fatigue analysis of the first wall structure of the PROMETHEUS IFE reactor

Analysis of the mechanical response of the PROMETHEUS inertial fusion energy (IFE) reactor first wall is presented. Time-dependent stress, strain and displacement fields are numerically determined for an SiC-SiC composite first wall structure, in response to two types of pulsed loadings. These are ablation momentum associated with sudden evaporation of the protecting liquid metal film due to X-ray deposition and the interaction of the first wall with the induced pressure shock waves during cavity heat up and cool down phases. Based on these results, a modular first wall concept is recommended. Fatigue life time calculations based on residual stiffness and damage evolution criteria for the SiC-SiC composite first wall structure are presented.