The ignition parameter Tnτ and the energy multiplication factor k for fusioning plasmas

This paper presents some novel interpretations of fusion plasmas which may be of interest to both fission and fusion scientists and engineers. A new fusion ignition parameter (Tn e τ E ) I is proposed which is proportional to β 2 B 4 and inversely proportional to the fusion power density (P Fusion ) of a reacting plasma. Curves are given for many potential nuclear fusion fuels. The energy utilization factor in existing devices is defined as f = P Fusion /P Loss = (Tn e τ L )/(Tn e τ E ) I ; in experimental plasmas, f has increased by about two orders of magnitude in the past decade and now exceeds 10 −4 (a "nearest" f* exceeds 10 −3 ). The f factor is also analogous to its fission counterpart in the four-factor neutron multiplication factor k = f η p, where f is the neutron thermal utilization factor. Past, present, and future fusion experiments are discussed briefly in this context.