Aspects of an inertial-confinement, fusion reactor that uses an energy release {approx gt}10{sup 11} joules are discussed. The large energy release makes possible direct conversion of the fusion neutrons' energy after nuclear heating of an evaporated blanket to the plasma state. Surface damage by charged particles is avoided and structural damage by neutrons is alleviated. Complex fuel assemblies and other expandable parts may be used as a result of the high monetary value of the energy release.

The environmental effects of this conceptual design were evaluated and found to be little different from other electrical power plants in most regards. Exceptions include a very small release of tritium, a low-hazard isotope, and relatively large amounts of radioactive material which must be either stored on site for eventual reprocessing or permanently discarded. These radioactive materials are nonvolatile and should not pose a difficult disposal problem, although some of the material may remain radioactive for hundreds of years. Natural resources required to build and operate the reference plant are not excessive except perhaps in the case of niobium and beryllium. The accident, sabotage, etc., problems of the plant are very minimal and although accidents can be postulated which would be inconvenient and costly within the plant, the probability of sizable impact on the surroundings is so as to be incredible.