Nuclear-Electric Modelling

This work will build on the computational study already performed by the student as part of their Physics Masters thesis. This involved the use of computational methods to assess the feasibility of using neutron irradiation to transmute diamond samples into beta-voltaic devices based upon Tritium, Carbon-14 and/or Beryllium-10. Such devices exhibit low power and exceptionally long lifetimes of 12, 5730 and 1.39 million years respectively. Furthermore, the prototypes produced will form the basis for the mass-manufacture of diamond beta-voltaic devices using radioisotopes re-purposed from nuclear waste. Additionally, the study explored the electronic behaviour of diamond for optimising thicknesses of such devices to maximise energy density and power output. The work has proposed several designs for prototype compositions of synthetic diamond which will be manufactured over the coming months using cutting-edge methods to be irradiated at Kyoto University Research Reactor (KURRI) in Japan.
The modelling processes developed by the student also proved useful in characterising gamma energy harvesting in diamond; a key process in the use of diamond in fusion reactors as well as radiation detection and nuclear waste management. Such energy harvesting processes are analogous with other innovative energy industries where simulation techniques are increasingly relied upon.
This PhD is an extension of the previous 'proof of concept' research the student completed at Masters-level to provide an in-depth modelling study of both gamma and beta-voltaic diamond energy harvesting cells to optimise device parameters and power outputs for future commercialisation. This would include the development of diamond-based gamma and beta-voltaic devices for direct nuclear-electric generation in a fusion reactor.
Furthermore, it will build on previous modelling the student has performed regarding layer thicknesses and compositions as well as making neutronics calculations for reactor irradiations of specific isotopic configurations for beta-voltaic applications. The student will extend and build upon the specialist skills they have developed through use of training courses and facilities as well as inter-disciplinary laboratories. The study will also utilise available radiation facilities and practical work to provide validation of the models created from operational prototype devices. The resulting experimental data allows models to be refined and potentially adapted to other related areas such as semiconductor physics, energy harvesting, radiation detection and nuclear waste characterisation. During the study it is expected that the student will attend international conferences in related areas to their work to expand upon specialist skills and knowledge. For example, the computational modelling of complex systems like the nuclear and electrical properties of materials such as synthetic diamond. Attention may also be paid to how the students work in optimising devices relates to the prospects of commercialisation and business models. New opportunities and potential uses for the computational techniques and experience accrued during the study may arise and will be explored as part of the investigation or in the form of a sabbatical. The practical work involved will include the student attending experiments at international facilities such as KURRI in Japan and at various UK/EU/US irradiation sites. The studentship will be funded through 50% EPSRC DTA with CASE support from CCFE via the Eurofusion programme.