July 25, 2023
The project aims to advance liquid lithium (liq-Li) technology as a fusion blanket coolant and tritium breeding material for fusion energy production, offering excellent thermal properties and high tritium-breeding efficiency. A major challenge in using liq-Li is the efficient extraction of tritium. This research will focus on the Direct LiT Electrolysis process, employing lithium lanthanum zirconate (LLZO) solid electrolyte, to extract tritium from liq-Li. The project’s objectives include characterizing electrolyte mechanical properties, determining electrode and process properties for integration into the UNITY loop, and exploring impurity removal in Li coolant. UNITY stands for UNique Integrated Testing FacilitY, which is currently under development by Kyoto Fusioneering to research and test key fusion fuel cycle and power cycle technologies. Success in developing and demonstrating this technology will make liq-Li a more attractive option for the fusion industry, promoting innovation in blanket designs, and contributing to the development of a successful fusion power plant.