Overview

This webinar will delve into the critical technology of tritium breeding blankets, which play a pivotal role in closing the fusion fuel cycle. We will explore the essential design requirements for these blankets and highlight their fundamental importance in the fusion fuel cycle and broader applications within any fusion power plant. Join us to gain a comprehensive understanding of this vital aspect of fusion technology and its implications for future energy solutions.

Tritium breeding blankets are a critical component of a fusion power plant. They are essential for breeding tritium, which is necessary to sustain the fusion reaction. These blankets are responsible for extracting the majority of the heat produced by the fusion reaction, which can then be utilised for electricity generation or other industrial processes. Additionally, they play a vital role in shielding critical reactor components, such as magnets, from neutron radiation. This webinar will provide an overview and exploration of the design, function, and significance of tritium breeding blankets in fusion energy production.

We will explore the functions of the breeding blanket, examine current blanket designs, discuss its role within the broader balance of plant ecosystem, and highlight its critical contribution to achieving tritium self-sufficiency.

Speaker

Mohamad Abdallah, Head of Fusion Fuel Systems & Chief Engineer, Tokamak Energy

With over 15 years of experience in the nuclear fission and fusion sectors, Mohamad serves as the Head of Fusion Fuel Systems and Chief Engineer at Tokamak Energy. In this role, he leads the hydrogen isotope research department, guiding multiple teams in the design of fusion fuel cycles and tritium breeding blankets, thereby advancing these critical technologies. As chief engineer, Mohamad oversees the governance of design activities focused on power and tritium technologies and manages the critical systems of Tokamak Energy’s Fusion Pilot Plant, contributing to both operational excellence and strategic direction.

Previously, Mohamad was the Head of the Fuel Cycle team for the ambitious United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) Spherical Tokamak for Energy Production (STEP) programme. He pioneered the design of deuterium-tritium fuel cycle sub-systems and led the strategy to drive the STEP fusion reactor towards tritium self-sufficiency. Mohamad holds a master’s degree in chemical engineering from University College London and a master’s degree in fusion energy and plasma physics from the University of York. He is also a Chartered Fellow with the Institute of Chemical Engineers.

The material presented in this webinar has not been peer-reviewed. Any opinions are the presenter's own and do not necessarily represent those of IChemE or the Nuclear Technology Special Interest Group. The information is given in good faith but without any liability on the part of IChemE.

Webinar recording