CFD optimization of the resistivity meter for the IFMIF-DONES facility

A detailed study of lithium-related topics in the IFMIF-DONES facility is currently being promoted and supported within the EUROfusion action, paying attention to different pivotal aspects including lithium flow stability and the monitoring and extraction of impurities. The resistivity meter is a device able to monitor online non-metallic impurities (mainly nitrogen) in flowing lithium. It relies on the variation of the electric resistivity produced by dissolved anions: the higher the concentration of impurities in lithium, the higher the resistivity measured. The current configuration of the resistivity meter has shown different measuring issues during its operation. All these issues reduce the accuracy of the measurements performed with this instrument and introduce relevant noise affecting the resistance value. This paper proposes different upgrades, supported by CFD simulations, to optimize lithium flow conditions and to reduce measurement problems. Owing to these upgrades, a new design of the resistivity meter has been achieved, which is simpler and easier to manufacture.