Faculty

Don Steiner, Professor Emeritus


General Areas of Research:

· Nuclear Fusion
· Energy Systems/Multiphase Phenomena
· Energy
· Nuclear Physics
· Nuclear Science and Technology

Research Activities:


Professor Steiner's research deals with the development of fusion as a viable source of energy. Specific areas of research in the context of this overall theme are discussed below.

  • The Nuclear Performance of Fusion Energy Systems
    In this area radiation transport codes are employed to evaluate the nuclear characteristics of the major components of fusion energy systems. In addition, this research has included assessments of the nuclear data needs for fusion energy systems.

  • The Safety and Environmental Aspect of Fusion Energy Systems
    In this area we consider the various mechanisms whereby radioactivity can be released from fusion power systems. These studies also include the environmental aspects of waste storage and disposal. An important objective is to identify techniques for mitigating the impact of fusion power systems from a radiological point of view.

  • The Performance of Plasma Facing Components
    The plasma facing components of fusion energy systems receive very high heat and particle loads from the plasma. This work involves modeling, simulation, and experimental work to understand and mitigate the impact of particle and heat loads on these components.

  • Advanced Materials
    In this area we have focused on the development of SiC/SiC composites. The work here is largely experimental and is aimed at investigations of the radiation performance of various silicon carbide materials in order to develop an optimized system.

  • Design of Fusion Energy Systems
    This work is done as part of a National Team which conducts design studies on promising concepts for fusion energy applications.