Researchers from the United States, France and the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory have set a new fusion record using the WEST tungsten-walled tokamak.
Fusion breakthrough
Record parameters of the experiment
Scientists have achieved outstanding results in thermonuclear fusion experiments on the WEST tokamak equipped with a tungsten wall. For 6 minutes, the reactor was able to contain plasma with a temperature of over 50 million degrees Celsius, while releasing 1.15 gigajoules of energy. The resulting energy was 15% higher than in previous experiments, and the plasma density doubled.
Advanced diagnostic methods
To measure the parameters of super-hot plasma and other characteristics of the process, the researchers used X-ray detector located inside the tokamak itself. This made it possible to obtain accurate data on the occurrence of thermonuclear fusion reactions under extreme conditions.
Difficulties and prospects of the tungsten wall
The high-temperature tungsten wall of the WEST tokamak significantly complicated the conditions of the experiment on compared to traditional carbon structures, however, it is this refractory material that is considered one of the most promising for future industrial thermonuclear fusion installations. As the project's lead scientist, Luis Delgado-Aparicio, notes, "working with a tungsten medium is comparable to trying to pet a predatory lion instead of a domestic kitten."
Operating principle of a tokamak
A tokamak is a toroidal-shaped thermonuclear reactor in which, with the help of powerful magnetic fields, plasma is retained - ionized gas, where fusion reactions occur. In the process of fusion, atomic nuclei fuse, releasing enormous amounts of energy and generating gigantic temperatures that exceed the conditions inside stars. Fusion is the opposite of the fission reactions used in traditional nuclear reactors.
Purpose of industrial fusion
The main goal of research in the field of thermonuclear fusion is to achieve stable maintenance of the reaction with an energy output exceeding the cost of its initiation. Unlike nuclear fission, fusion does not produce radioactive waste and releases much greater energy reserves, so it is considered the “holy grail” of energy. Scientists call the achievement of a steady-state reaction in the WEST experiment an outstanding breakthrough.
Glossary
- The WEST tokamak is an experimental toroidal-shaped fusion facility located in France and equipped with a tungsten wall to contain the plasma.
- The Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory is a leading US research center engaged in research in the field of plasma physics and controlled thermonuclear fusion.
- The US Department of Energy is the government agency that oversees energy policy and research in this area.
- The Commission for Alternative Energy and Atomic Energy is the French government agency responsible for the development of nuclear power and alternative energy sources.
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Discussion of the topic – New fusion record: 50 million °C for 6 minutes at the WEST reactor
French and American scientists maintained plasma at 50 million °C for 6 minutes on the WEST tungsten-walled tokamak, setting a new record for nuclear fusion.
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Иван
Guys, have you heard the news about a breakthrough in thermonuclear fusion? American and French scientists were able to maintain high-temperature plasma for as long as 6 minutes! 🔥 This is a truly impressive result.
Анна
Yes, I read about this too! They used a tungsten-walled tokamak that was able to withstand the incredible temperatures of the plasma. I wonder how they managed to achieve such a stable reaction? 🤔
Петр
From the description, the key is to use tungsten. This material can truly withstand extreme conditions. And they were able to get 15% more energy than before! 💪
Франсуа
Oui, c'est incroyable! 🇫🇷 Nuclear fusion could usher in a whole new era in energy production. Non-polluting and practically inexhaustible. This is the future of energy, mes amis!
Грегор
I agree that thermonuclear energy is a breakthrough for all humanity. 🌍 But don't forget about other alternative energy sources, such as solar panels, wind turbines and geothermal energy. We need an integrated approach!
Ян
Eh, all these newfangled things... 😒 Better than good old nuclear energy. Although not without problems, it is still more reliable than these experiments with plasma. I don’t believe in this thermal yacht, it’s a total waste of money!
Елена
I don't agree with you, Ian! 👎 Fusion is the future because it does not produce radioactive waste and is much safer. Yes, there are still many unresolved problems, but progress is obvious. I’m very happy for the scientists!
Мария
I am impressed by the ambitions of scientists in this field. 👩🔬 Imagine, they are talking about the “holy grail” of energy! If they manage to achieve a self-sustaining fusion reaction, it will be a real revolution. 🚀 I will follow their successes!