Fusion -Reply

[Charles Willis <CAW@nrc.gov>]

Franz,

Like most activities, the devil is in the details.  In principle, if we could maintain a
T + D= He + n + 17 Mev process in isolation, the risk might be limited to the
tritium leakage and the neutron activation products, i.e. quite small risks. 
Conversly, if we do what we know how to do (technically, not politically), vis.
explode thermonuclear devices underground to trap the heat, then use that heat to
make steam and to turn a turbine,  it is easy to postulate scenarios where the
hazards could be significant.  Until we know what actually will be done in a fusion
power plant, risk assessment is largely speculation.  It is a good bet, however, that
the risks can never be low enough to placate the critics.

Charlie Willis
caw@nrc.gov