Modeling nuclear fusion at lightning speed
Ionut Farcas uses reduced modeling to simulate plasma physics, reducing computation time from days to seconds. This enables real-time control and decision making in nuclear fusion devices.
Nuclear Fusion
Articles tagged with Nuclear Fusion
Nuclear data evaluation of the 5^He system in fusion reactions
A systematic nuclear data evaluation of the five-nucleon 5^He system was performed using the Generalized Reduced R-matrix framework. The study provides reliable cross-sections with improved uncertainties, covering energy ranges up to 46 MeV for neutron-induced reactions and 30 MeV for deuteron-induced reactions.
SourceNuclear Science and Techniques·JournalNuclear Science and Techniques·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 31, 2026
Theoretical study of laser-enhanced nuclear fusion reactions
Theoretical study reveals that low-frequency lasers significantly enhance fusion efficiency, increasing tunneling probabilities and bridging the gap between low-temperature and high-temperature conditions. The study provides a unified framework for analyzing laser-assisted fusion across different laser frequencies and intensities.
SourceNuclear Science and Techniques·JournalNuclear Science and Techniques·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 20, 2026
First high-precision measurement of potential dynamics inside reactor-grade fusion plasma
Scientists successfully measured electric potential in plasmas using a non-contact diagnostic technique, enabling the detection of temporal transitions in internal plasma potential distribution. The method allows for improved predictive models of plasma behavior and confinement frameworks in fusion research.
SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalNuclear Fusion·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 12, 2025
World’s largest superconducting fusion system will use American technology to measure the plasma within
The Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory has partnered with Japan and Europe on the world's largest fusion machine, JT-60SA. The U.S. lab will provide an advanced measurement tool, XICS, to help scientists better understand and control the plasma inside the machine.
Wirth elected Fellow of American Physical Society
Brian Wirth, UT-ORNL Governor’s Chair Professor, was elected Fellow of the American Physical Society for his groundbreaking work on plasma-surface interactions. His research has led to high-fidelity simulation tools predicting fusion plasma surface interactions, resulting in significant advancements.
Press registration and scientific program now available for nuclear physics meeting
The scientific program includes presentations on new research in exotic and radioactive nuclei, quark-gluon plasma, nucleosynthesis, neutrinos, and more. Registration is now open for news media with valid APS press credentials.
Nuclear waste could be a source of fuel in future reactors
Researchers are developing a new system to use nuclear waste to produce valuable tritium, which could power over 500,000 homes for six months. The system uses a particle accelerator to jump-start atom-splitting reactions in the waste, producing more tritium than traditional fusion reactors.
Wendelstein 7-X sets new performance records in nuclear fusion research
The world's largest and most powerful stellarator, Wendelstein 7-X, achieved a new world record for the triple product in long plasma discharges, sustaining a peak value for 43 seconds. This milestone marks a significant step toward developing a power-plant-capable stellarator.
Recent advances in photoneutron detection: High-precision measurement of photoneutron cross section data using the LCS source
Researchers at SLEGS have made high-precision measurements of the 27Al(γ,n) cross section, resolving existing data discrepancies and providing more accurate nuclear reaction models. The study's innovative detector design and laser Compton scattering beams enabled direct comparisons with global datasets.
SourceNuclear Science and Techniques·JournalNuclear Science and Techniques·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 12, 2025
Laser-Driven micro-pinch breakthrough: Unlocking ultra-intense neutron sources
Researchers develop ultra-intense neutron generation through petawatt-class lasers, achieving densities exceeding 1025 cm-3. This breakthrough enables high-yield fusion reactions, revolutionizing fields like astrophysics, materials science, and neutron imaging.
SourceNuclear Science and Techniques·JournalNuclear Science and Techniques·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 6, 2025
Engineers develop breakthrough technique to enhance lifespan of next-generation fusion power plants
Researchers developed an advanced microscopic method to map residual stress in ultra-narrow weld zones, revealing the impact on P91 steel's strength and brittleness. The findings provide critical insights for designing safer and longer-lasting fusion energy systems.
CNR-INO signs strategic agreement with RSE for nuclear fusion research
The partnership will focus on advanced simulations, high-energy particle generation, and artificial intelligence to optimize data management in laser facilities. This collaboration aims to promote innovative technologies for nuclear fusion energy production through high-power lasers, advancing scientific knowledge in the energy sector.
Producing nuclear fusion fuel is banned in the US for being too toxic, but these researchers found an alternative
Researchers have developed a mercury-free method to isolate lithium-6, essential for producing nuclear fusion fuel. The new method uses zeta-vanadium oxide and achieves enrichment rates comparable to the banned COLEX process, paving the way for unlocking nuclear fusion as a sustainable energy source.
Graphite production gets a makeover
Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed a new catalytic graphitization technology to convert petroleum coke into graphite, reducing emissions and cost associated with conventional synthetic graphite production. The process uses lower temperatures and shorter times, making it more sustainable and efficient.
SMART, one step closer to nuclear fusion with its first plasma
The SMART device has successfully generated its first tokamak plasma, bringing international fusion community closer to achieving sustainable and clean energy. The achievement represents a major step towards the development of compact fusion power plants based on Spherical Tokamaks.
Chinese "artificial sun" sets milestone record towards fusion power generation
The EAST experimental tokamak has achieved a significant milestone in fusion research by maintaining steady-state high-confinement plasma operation for 1,066 seconds. This accomplishment marks a critical step towards developing an artificial sun and providing humanity with a limitless and clean energy source.
Improved predictive accuracy of fusion plasma performance by data science
A new method combines theory and simulation predictions with experimental data to improve fusion plasma performance accuracy. Multi-fidelity modeling enhances predictive accuracy using limited high-quality data, improving the reliability of plasma transport models.
SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalScientific Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 12, 2024
SNU researchers reveal the mechanism of runaway electron generation in tokamak fusion reactors
Researchers at Seoul National University have clarified the mechanism behind runaway electrons generated during tokamak fusion reactor startup. The binary nature of collisions facilitates runaway electron generation, addressing a theoretical bottleneck in fusion reactor design.
SourceSeoul National University College of Engineering·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 4, 2024
Approaching the unexplored “plasma phase-space” with data science
Scientists at National Institute for Fusion Science create high-speed plasma phase-space distribution measurement, improving data resolution by 50-fold. The new technique reveals wave-particle interactions and simultaneous rightward-leftward waves, leading to more efficient plasma heating.
SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 3, 2024
13th ITER International School (IIS2024) gives professional training for 200 young scientists and engineers of the world, to advance nuclear fusion research on the road to commercial reactor
The 13th ITER International School (IIS2024) brings together 200 young researchers and engineers to advance nuclear fusion research. The school's theme is 'Magnetic fusion diagnostics and data science,' focusing on measurement and analysis for achieving fusion energy demonstration in the ITER project.
Lehigh student awarded highly selective DOE grant to conduct research at DIII-D National Fusion Facility
Brian Leard, a PhD student at Lehigh University, has been awarded a prestigious DOE grant to conduct research at the DIII-D National Fusion Facility. He aims to develop simulation codes that can optimize actuator operation and improve the accuracy of plasma physics predictions.
Mayonnaise used in nuclear fusion research
Scientists at Lehigh University are using mayonnaise to study Rayleigh-Taylor instability and its transition to a plastic regime. The researchers aim to better understand the physics of nuclear fusion through this unconventional approach.
Lehigh University researchers dig deeper into stability challenges of nuclear fusion—with mayonnaise
Researchers at Lehigh University use mayonnaise to simulate the phases of Rayleigh-Taylor instability in nuclear fusion, which could inform the design of future inertial confinement fusion processes. The team found that understanding the transition between elastic and stable plastic phases is critical for controlling the instability.
Discovery of spontaneous inflow and outflow states of high-temperature plasma by energetic ions
Scientists at National Institutes of Natural Sciences found that adjusting the anisotropic nature of energetic ions can regulate plasma inflow and outflow rates. This discovery has significant implications for fusion reactor performance, downsizing, and energy output.
SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalPhysics of Plasmas·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 23, 2024
New plasma escape mechanism could protect fusion vessels from excessive heat
Researchers at PPPL have found a new mechanism that reduces the risk of damage to tokamak vessels by spreading exhaust heat across a larger area. The discovery challenges previous assumptions about plasma turbulence and its impact on the vessel's performance.
SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·JournalNuclear Fusion·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 11, 2024
The discovery of new turbulence transition in fusion plasmas
Researchers have found that turbulence is most suppressed at a certain density in fusion plasmas, with transitions occurring below and above this point. Simulations revealed that ion-temperature gradient, pressure gradient, and plasma resistivity cause turbulence changes around the transition density.
SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 9, 2024
First demonstration of predictive control of fusion plasma by digital twin
A new control system optimizes predictive models with real-time observations, predicting fusion plasma behavior with high accuracy. This approach enables adaptive predictive control in uncertain conditions, laying the foundation for fusion reactor control.
SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 25, 2024
Smooth operation of future nuclear fusion facilities is a matter of control
The Lehigh University Plasma Control Group is working on advanced controls and machine learning to improve plasma dynamics simulation capabilities and stabilize superheated gases in future reactors. The goal is to address technological issues with ITER and FPP, ensuring safe and controllable operation.
Korean Artificial Sun, KSTAR, installation of a tungsten divertor for long pulse operations
The Korean Artificial Sun, KSTAR, has successfully installed a tungsten divertor, allowing it to sustain high-temperature plasma for extended periods. The new divertor will enable the experiment to reach temperatures of 100 million degrees and operate for up to 300 seconds by 2026.
Rochester’s Laser Lab heads new national inertial fusion energy hub
The University of Rochester's Laboratory for Laser Energetics leads a new national research hub focused on advancing inertial fusion energy science and technology. The IFE-COLoR hub aims to overcome laser-plasma instabilities, a major obstacle in achieving efficient laser coupling for inertial confinement fusion.
Solar System formed from “poorly mixed cake batter,” isotope research shows
Researchers have discovered that primitive meteorites contain a different mix of potassium isotopes than those found in other, more-chemically processed meteorites. This suggests that the Solar System was formed from a 'poorly mixed cake batter' of materials, with some planets receiving a unique blend of elements from distant sources.
Lehigh University shares in $47 million DOE push to accelerate fusion energy research
Lehigh University has received nearly $1.75 million in funding from the US Department of Energy to support fusion energy research, specifically for ITER's long-pulse scenarios. The project aims to prepare ITER for operation and address critical research questions related to plasma control.
How does radiation travel through dense plasma?
Researchers at the University of Rochester used x-ray spectroscopy to study radiation transport in dense plasmas. They found that atomic energy level changes do not follow conventional quantum mechanics theories, instead conforming to a self-consistent approach based on density-functional theory.
Nuclear fusion: A new solution for the instability problem
A research team has found a novel operating regime that prevents destructive plasma instabilities in fusion reactors, allowing for the controlled injection of particles at the plasma edge. This approach could lead to a more stable and efficient fusion reactor design.
SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 11, 2022
The process of waves carrying plasma heat is observed for the first time in the world
Researchers at National Institutes of Natural Sciences observe plasma heating due to electromagnetic waves for the first time. They used a new measurement system to capture ultrahigh-speed data, revealing that Landau damping transfers energy from high-energy particles to electromagnetic waves, which then heat the plasma.
SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalCommunications Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2022
The electron slow motion: Ion physics on the femtosecond scale
Scientists have analyzed the interaction between highly charged ions and graphene at a femtosecond scale, revealing complex processes involved in material response. The study provides fundamental new insights into how matter reacts to short and intense radiation exposure.
SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 22, 2022
Discovery of high-speed moving plasma turbulence for the first time in the world
Researchers at NIFS have made a groundbreaking discovery in fusion plasmas, finding that turbulence moves faster than heat. This characteristic allows for predictive control of plasma temperature, paving the way for real-time manipulation. The study used advanced instruments to measure turbulent behavior with unprecedented accuracy.
SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 19, 2022
Successful improvement of plasma thermal insulation layer with deuterium
Researchers discovered a stronger flow in the plasma core surrounding the thermal insulation layer in deuterium plasmas, leading to better thermal insulation. This finding could improve future fusion power plants using deuterium and tritium as fuels.
SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 28, 2022
Plasma turbulence spreading by magnetic fluctuation reduces heat load on a fusion device wall
Researchers have discovered that magnetic fluctuations can reduce heat load on fusion devices by propagating turbulence. This breakthrough enables a new method for controlling turbulence and maintaining high central temperatures in the plasma.
SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2022
Surrey research is helping to usher in safe, low-carbon electricity generated by nuclear fusion
Researchers at the University of Surrey are working on a new approach to stress measurement techniques for nuclear fusion energy. The team aims to prove the safety and effectiveness of welds in future fusion power plants, which could be a key part of the world's long-term energy needs.
SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalJournal of Materials Science·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 22, 2022
Harnessing hot helium ash to drive rotation in fusion reactors
Researchers have discovered a way to harness hot helium ash to drive rotation in fusion reactors, reducing instabilities and turbulence. By capturing the energy of hot fusion ash via alpha channeling, plasma rotation can be stabilized, leading to improved performance and reduced operating costs.
A sandblaster at the atomic level
A computational model predicts the effects of ion bombardment on surfaces with varying degrees of roughness, enabling accurate calculation of material removal. The study's findings have implications for fusion research, astrophysics, and industrial applications.
SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalApplied Surface Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 20, 2021
Cross-pollinating physicists use novel technique to improve the design of facilities that aim to harvest fusion energy
Scientists at PPPL have developed a new technique to design powerful magnets for tokamaks using stellarator computer code, enabling more efficient confinement and control of plasma. This innovation can aid the construction of fusion facilities by compensating for imprecision and suppressing plasma instabilities.
Ultrafast X-ray provides new look at plasma discharge breakdown in water
The team uses state-of-the-art X-ray imaging to study plasma discharges in water, providing new insights into the phenomena. The research aims to advance green energy production through methods like fusion, hydrocarbon reforming, and hydrogen generation.
Tracking the progress of fusion power through 60 years of neutral particle analysis
A review paper examines the history and evolution of neutral particle analysis (NPA), a powerful diagnostic technique for harnessing fusion power. NPA has played a key role in advancing controlled fusion physics, with its application expected to be crucial in ITER, the world's largest fusion experiment.
Fusion by strong lasers
Researchers investigate possibility of facilitating controlled fusion reactions with assisted tunneling processes using X-ray free electron lasers. Theoretical results show promise for increasing tunneling rate, paving way for successful controlled fusion reaction.
Nuclear fusion: wrestling with burning questions on the control of 'burning plasmas'
Researchers aim to control and stabilize nuclear fusion reactions using heat and magnetic fields. Studies focus on regulating plasma temperature and density to produce fusion power while avoiding thermal instabilities.
Tungsten 'too brittle' for nuclear fusion reactors
Researchers at the University of Huddersfield have found that tungsten, a favored metal in nuclear fusion reactors, becomes brittle due to radiation damage. This discovery hinders the use of tungsten as a structural material, prompting the development of new alloys that can prevent embrittlement.
Laser-heated nanowires produce micro-scale nuclear fusion
Researchers at Colorado State University have demonstrated micro-scale nuclear fusion using a compact laser, achieving record-setting efficiency for generating neutrons. This breakthrough could lead to advances in neutron-based imaging and materials science research.
Model predicts scenarios for energy generation using nuclear fusion
A Brazilian researcher's study has elucidated the conditions necessary for self-sustaining nuclear fusion in tokamaks. The findings provide crucial information for the successful operation of ITER, a fusion reactor prototype designed to reproduce the sun's energy generation process.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalPhysics of Plasmas·DateJan 29, 2018
Astronomers identify purest, most massive brown dwarf
Scientists have identified a brown dwarf with a composition of over 99.99% hydrogen and helium, making it the most massive known to date. The discovery sheds light on the possibility of an undiscovered population of extremely pure brown dwarfs in our galaxy's ancient past.
SourceRoyal Astronomical Society·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateMar 24, 2017
New path suggested for nuclear fusion
Scientists at Rice University and Chile have proposed a new approach to nuclear fusion by simulating the use of shaped laser pulses to control atomic reactions. This method could potentially produce energy efficiently from deuterium and tritium, with the goal of creating a more sustainable and clean source of power.
R. Goldston receives 2015 Nuclear Fusion Award
Goldston's paper presented a new model for estimating scrape-off layer width, which depends on plasma drift rate across closed surfaces, and has been largely confirmed by experiments worldwide.
Abrupt excitation phenomenon in high-temperature plasma
Scientists have discovered a new phenomenon where fluctuations in high-temperature plasma grow abruptly, accompanied by large oscillation amplitude. The research provides insight into the mechanism of this phenomenon, known as subcritical instability, and its potential impact on nuclear fusion.
Physicists solve quantum tunneling mystery: ANU media release
An international team of scientists has solved a quantum mechanics mystery, finding that quantum tunneling is an instantaneous process. The new theory could lead to breakthroughs in areas like electron microscopy, nuclear fusion, and DNA mutations.
Magnetic behavior discovery could advance nuclear fusion
Researchers from the University of Michigan and Princeton have discovered a new kind of magnetic behavior that can help make nuclear fusion reactions more efficient. This breakthrough could lead to advancements in nuclear energy, as fusion generates helium without radioactive waste.
Fusion presents low proliferation risk, experts conclude
American researchers conclude that prospective magnetic fusion power systems would pose a much lower risk of being used for the production of weapon-usable materials. The study found that with IAEA safeguards, there is little risk of fissile materials being produced for weapons.
Catching tokamak fastballs: Controlling runaway electrons
Researchers at DIII-D National Fusion Facility have developed a method to control high-energy runaway electrons in tokamaks, which can potentially damage interior surfaces. By applying rapid pre-programmed changes in magnetic control coils, scientists can move the electron beam away from interior surfaces and prevent damage.
Origin of key cosmic explosions still a mystery
Scientists investigate white dwarf remnants and binary systems to understand supernovae origins. However, the search for accreting white dwarfs yields few results, leading researchers to reconsider their theories.