Solving the stand-off problem for magnetized target fusion : Plasma streams as disposable electrodes, together with a local spherical blanket

In a fusion reactor based on the magnetized target fusion approach, the permanent power supply has to deliver currents up to a few mega-amperes to the target dropped into the reaction chamber. All the structures situated around the target will be destroyed after every pulse and have to be replaced at a frequency of 1–10 Hz. In this paper, an approach based on the use of spherical blanket surrounding the target, and pulsed plasma electrodes connecting the target to the power supply, is discussed. A brief analysis of the processes associated with creation of plasma electrodes is presented.