OPTIMIZATION OF BLANKET DESIGN FOR FUSION REACTORS BY HIGHER ORDER PERTURBATION THEORY.

The use of first- and second-order perturbation theory is studied to optimize the design of a fusion reactor blanket region. The basis in variational and sensitivity theory is outlined with a simple model. The theory is applied to the optimization of a fusion reactor in a one-dimensional transport model, illustrated by considerations of tritium breeding and of minimizing induced activity. It is concluded that the second-order method has attractive features but must also be interpreted carefully. General trends for improving the breeding ratio by use of lithium enrichment are reported