Simultaneous characterization of O, C, 6Li, and medium-weight impurities concentration in PbLi by ion beam analysis

Some Breeding Blanket concepts in nuclear fusion reactors contemplate the use of eutectic Pb_84.3 Li_15.7 (PbLi) because it simultaneously acts as Tritium (T) breeder (part of the reactor fuel) and neutron multiplier. For a proper reactor operation and control, the exact knowledge of PbLi composition, including impurities and ⁶Li isotope concentration is required, since it notably influences its properties (corrosion action, T production capabilities and T solubility, among others).

Here, we show the capabilities of ion beam analysis (IBA) techniques to accurately determine both of these issues. To do that, we combine nuclear reaction analysis (NRA) and particle induced X-ray emission (PIXE) to quantitatively characterize the C and O concentrations, the isotopic concentration of ⁶Li, and the medium weight impurities concentration for commercial PbLi samples after exposure to environmental conditions for different times (0.5–15000 h).