The Benefits of Spin Polarization for Inertial and Magneto-Inertial Fusion Propulsion

TL;DR

This paper explores how spin polarization in fusion fuels can enhance inertial and magneto-inertial fusion propulsion by reducing shielding needs and improving fuel burnup, potentially benefiting spacecraft propulsion systems.

Contribution

It introduces an analytic approach to evaluate the benefits of spin polarization in fusion fuels for propulsion, focusing on DT and D extsuperscript{3}He fuels.

Findings

Spin polarization can lower radiation shielding requirements.

Spin polarization increases fusion fuel burnup.

Potential for improved momentum coupling to spacecraft.

Abstract

Spin-polarized fusion has the potential to lower the radiation shielding and ignition requirements for fusion rockets while simultaneously increasing the fusion fuel burnup and provide better momentum coupling to a spacecraft. This potential is estimated using simple, analytic techniques. Both DT and D\textsuperscript{3}He fusion fuels are analyzed.