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Updated: May 11, 2026
09:18
Laser-heating and Radiance Spectrometry for the Study of Nuclear Materials in Conditions Simulating a Nuclear Power Plant Accident
Published on: December 14, 2017
LIFE: a sustainable solution for developing safe, clean fusion power.
Susana Reyes1, Mike Dunne, Kevin Kramer
1Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA 94551-9900, USA. reyes20@llnl.gov
Health Physics
|May 1, 2013
Summary
The Laser Inertial Fusion Energy (LIFE) project aims to develop a fusion power plant for baseload electricity. LIFE leverages NIF technology for safe, sustainable fusion power, with reduced tritium inventory and favorable safety features.
Area of Science:
- Fusion energy research
- Nuclear engineering
- Sustainable energy
Background:
- The National Ignition Facility (NIF) aims to achieve fusion ignition.
- The Laser Inertial Fusion Energy (LIFE) power plant is designed to deliver baseload electricity.
- LIFE builds upon NIF's technological advancements and operational paradigm.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present the delivery plan and preconceptual design of the LIFE facility.
- To emphasize key safety design principles for fusion power.
- To demonstrate a feasible closed fusion fuel cycle with reduced tritium inventory.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing diode-pumped, solid-state laser technology.
- Adopting Line Replaceable Units for high availability and maintainability.
- Designing a steady-state, power-producing fusion device with a closed fuel cycle.
Main Results:
- The LIFE design reduces in-process tritium inventory compared to other fusion concepts.
- Initial accident analysis suggests favorable safety characteristics.
- Potential for a more attractive licensing regime than current fission reactors.
Conclusions:
- The LIFE project is progressing with a focus on safety and market viability.
- The design demonstrates a pathway to safe, sustainable fusion power.
- LIFE offers a promising alternative for future baseload electricity generation.
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