The lithium systems of the IFMIF-DONES facility

The International Fusion Materials Irradiation Facility-DEMO Oriented Neutron Source (IFMIF-DONES) is designed mainly to test and qualify materials for future fusion reactors by exposing them to a high energetic and intense neutron flux, and also to develop other scientific experiments using a fraction of the neutrons generated. The Lithium Systems (LSs) are crucial to the operation of the facility, generating and delivering the neutron flux through the interaction of a deuteron beam with a flowing lithium target. It comprises four systems: the Target System that produces the stable high-velocity lithium flow target and handles the substantial heat load from the beam interaction; the Heat Removal Loops, designed to supply the liquid lithium to the target in adequate conditions, this removing up to 10 MW through primary lithium loops and secondary and tertiary oil and water loops; the Impurity Control System, which controls the contents of impurities in the lithium, to reduce corrosion and erosion phenomena, and localize the radioactive impurities; and the LS Ancillaries, providing essential support such as vacuum, gas, and electrical power to the other systems. The design and operation of the LSs face several significant challenges. Maintaining the stability and high velocity of the lithium flow under extreme conditions is of paramount importance. Operating in a high-radiation environment presents additional complexities, requiring the development of specialized maintenance strategies in conjunction with remote handling technologies. The design of the IFMIF-DONES LS has evolved over the last years. This paper presents the current design status, highlighting the solutions implemented to address these challenges and to ensure the reliable and safe operation of the facility.