The High Intensity D-T Fusion Neutron Generator (HINEG), developed and constructed by the Institute of Nuclear Energy Safety Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, successfully produced a D-T fusion neutron yield of up to 1.1×1012n/s in the experimental operation on Jan. 2nd, 2016, marking the accomplishment of Phase I. The high intensity accelerator and high power rotating target systems were operating at steady state.

The project team has been concentrating on neutronics theory and efficient utilization of neutrons in advanced nuclear systems for decades, with many internationally influential academic achievements, and also founded the Key Laboratory of Neutronics and Radiation Safety, Chinese Academy of Sciences. For in-depth R&D on experimental validation of neutronics theoretical models and relevant nuclear technology experiments, the team initiated the HINEG program with supports from more than 20 well known international institutions. In the past six years, several key technical issues were successfully taken including intense deuterium ion beam transport, high power dissipation, integrated measurement and control, et al. The team has developed more than ten sub-systems and hundreds of key devices, such as the ultrahigh voltage DC switching power supply, high intensity ion injection system, high voltage and high intensity accelerating tube, high power rotating target and high intensity neutron experimental system. Particularly, the high power rotating target tackled the intense cooling issue under high intensity beam bombardment, and the temperature in the target spot was successfully suppressed to less than 200 oC under 10 kW/cm2 thermal loading.