Determining Efficiency of Direct Energy Converters through Simulation

Direct energy converters (DEC) for ions leaving magnetic confinement have been theorized for decades. We examine simulations of some proposed set ups, such as the "venetian blind" arrangement [1,2], to calculate the conversion efficiency for ions. The simulations are run via the Boris particle push algorithm, while the electric and magnetic field set ups are determined through Gmsh and Dolfinx. Efficiency is determined by the change in the kinetic energy once the ion collides with an ion collector. DEC methods for energy capture from fusion reactors theoretically allow for higher energy efficiency than standard heat cycle energy capture. DEC methods lend themselves to open field line configurations.