Articles tagged with Plasma Physics
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
A Sydney PhD student has recreated a tiny piece of the Universe inside a bottle in her laboratory, producing cosmic dust from scratch. The results shed new light on how the chemical building blocks of life may have formed long before Earth existed.
The new platform, led by PPPL, aims to speed up simulations needed to advance fusion energy research. STELLAR-AI will integrate CPUs, GPUs, and QPUs to tackle the challenges of private fusion companies, enabling faster design and optimization of stellarator devices.
Jessica Eskew, a PhD student in Auburn Physics, has been awarded a highly competitive SCGSR Fellowship to conduct fusion energy research at DIII-D. Her research focuses on runaway electrons, which can damage fusion devices if uncontrolled. Eskew will collaborate with experts in energetic particle physics and plasma control.
The American Physical Society's Global Physics Summit will convene over 14,000 physicists worldwide for groundbreaking research presentations. The event will feature both in-person and online experiences, including scientific sessions, exhibits, and networking events.
The CHSN01 jacket material has achieved an average yield strength of 1560 MPa at 4.2 K, setting a new benchmark in cryogenic steel properties. This breakthrough demonstrates exceptional mechanical properties, non-magnetic nature, and high-strength performance under extreme conditions.
John Holdren, a Harvard University professor and former OSTP director, has been awarded the 2026 AIP Karl Taylor Compton Medal for his scientific leadership in engaging the public and promoting sound governmental policies. The medal recognizes his contributions to physics through statesmanship in science.
Researchers at the National Institute for Fusion Science used high-precision diagnostic instruments to measure temperature, turbulence, and heat propagation in a plasma. The experiments revealed two types of turbulence: a mediator-type that connects distant regions quickly, and another type that carries heat outward more slowly.
Research team measures temperature, turbulence, and heat propagation with high spatial and temporal resolution. Turbulence acts as a mediator, linking distant regions and speeding up heat transfer. Heat carrying turbulence shapes the overall temperature profile of the plasma.
A team of Caltech researchers has created an icy hot plasma system, where electrons and positively charged ions coexist in a mostly neutral gas environment. The study reveals the formation of extremely fluffy ice grains that grow into fractal shapes, leading to unexpected physics.
Zap Energy's FuZE-3 device has reached electron pressures of up to 830 MPa, or 1.6 GPa total, in a sheared-flow-stabilized Z pinch, a major milestone on the path to scientific energy gain. The device achieves this high pressure through independent control of plasma acceleration and compression.
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.
Researchers successfully estimated precise altitude distribution of nitrogen molecular ions responsible for blue aurora emissions at high altitudes. The study revealed a peak emission intensity at 200 km altitude, suggesting higher-than-thought density of nitrogen molecular ions in the atmosphere.
Researchers at Auburn University found that weak magnetic fields can reshape the behavior of dusty plasmas, slowing down or speeding up nanoparticle growth. This discovery could lead to new plasma-based techniques for creating nanoparticles with tailored properties.
Researchers have found a new mechanism explaining how larger-scale turbulent eddies deform and suppress smaller-scale ones in plasma confinement. This discovery could lead to improved fusion energy generation by understanding the interaction between turbulence at different scales.
Physicists from the Institute of Nuclear Physics in Cracow confirmed the validity of the core-halo model by observing coherent production of triplets of pions in high-energy proton collisions. This achievement provides new insights into hadronisation, a process that shapes the matter universe.
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.
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.
Scientists at MIT developed a method to predict how plasma in a tokamak will behave during rampdown, achieving high accuracy with limited data. This new model could significantly improve the safety and reliability of future fusion power plants.
Hundreds of physicists from around the world will convene to present new research at the 67th annual meeting of the American Physical Society’s Division of Plasma Physics. The conference features presentations on fusion energy, plasma turbulence, laser plasma acceleration, and more.
A new AI system called Diag2Diag analyzes sensor data to provide synthetic information for failing or degraded sensors in fusion systems, enhancing robustness and reducing complexity. This technology has the potential to make fusion energy more economical and reliable, enabling 24/7 operation without interruption.
A team of scientists from Princeton University and PPPL successfully recreated the star formation mechanism in a laboratory setting, validating astrophysical theory. The achievement marks over two decades of persistent effort and combines experimental ingenuity, theoretical insight, and advanced computational modeling.
Researchers at Peking University and Hunan University have developed a method to generate powerful, structured terahertz pulses with programmable polarization textures. The team uses femtosecond laser pulses to drive magnetized plasma, creating Poincaré THz beams carrying spin and orbital angular momentum.
The ORNL-led FIRE Collaboratives will focus on closing critical gaps in fusion materials, blanket and coolant technology, liquid metal components, and reactor modeling. The project aims to develop a new paradigm for fusion plasma-facing materials and accelerate the deployment of next-generation PFCs.
A sophisticated neutron flux diagnostic system will gather knowledge of plasma and power released in nuclear reactions at ITER. The High Resolution Neutron Spectrometer (HRNS) measures both neutron number and energies, providing information on fuel composition, ion temperature, and combustion quality.
A new propulsion system developed by Tohoku University's Kazunori Takahashi has successfully demonstrated the ability to remove space debris without physical contact. The system uses a bidirectional plasma ejection type electrodeless plasma thruster, which can decelerate targeted space debris and force it out of orbit in about 100 days.
Researchers analyzed 10 SEP events with inverse velocity dispersion signatures to investigate underlying mechanisms. The study found that energy-dependent release and longer timescales for high-energy particles explain the counterintuitive behavior.
Researchers at Nagoya University have developed a new method to create gallium oxide semiconductors with stable p-type layers, allowing for twice the current capacity of previous devices. This breakthrough enables improved energy efficiency, reduced waste, and lower operating costs for electronics.
Researchers have developed a new AI approach called HEAT-ML that accelerates calculations of magnetic shadows in fusion vessels, enabling faster design and operation. This breakthrough could lead to significant improvements in fusion power generation and potentially limitless clean energy.
Physicists used a machine-learning method to identify surprising new twists on the non-reciprocal forces governing a many-body system. The AI approach provides precise approximations for these forces, correcting common theoretical assumptions with an accuracy of over 99%.
A global collaboration found that co-deposition is the dominant driver of fuel retention in lithium walls, and adding lithium during operation is more effective than pre-coating. The study offers insights into managing tritium, a rare fusion fuel, and improving plasma stability.
PPPL's Jack Berkery is heading to Japan as a Fulbright Specialist to share research on spherical tokamaks and strengthen ties with Kyushu University. He will present PPPL research at the Asia-Pacific Conference on Plasma Physics, focusing on spherical tokamaks and their preparations for NSTX-U's next phase of operations.
CODEX observes high-energy particles and radiation from the Sun's corona, providing unprecedented data on solar activity. The findings reveal a complex interplay between magnetic fields and particle acceleration.
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.
Researchers develop a novel analytical method to capture localized structures and reveal the intertwined behavior of multiple fluctuating fields. They introduce two new measures based on information entropy, which quantify structural complexity and degree of coupling between turbulent structures.
Professor Edward Thomas Jr. has been awarded the prestigious Star Dust Award by the International Dusty Plasma Community for his 30-year contributions to the field of dusty plasma physics. He is recognized for his groundbreaking research in magnetized dusty plasmas, including the development of novel experimental diagnostics.
A new simulation approach has been developed to model plasmas used in computer chip manufacturing, allowing for improved stability and efficiency. The new code accurately conserves energy, helping to ensure the results reflect real physical processes.
The US National Science Foundation-funded ZEUS facility at the University of Michigan has roughly doubled the peak power of any other laser in the country with its first official experiment reaching 2 petawatts. Research at ZEUS will have applications in medicine, national security, materials science and astrophysics.
The 56th Annual Meeting of the American Physical Society's Division of Atomic, Molecular and Optical Physics will present new research on quantum computing, lasers, and Bose-Einstein condensates. Over 1,200 physicists from around the world will convene in Portland, Oregon, June 16-20.
Amsterdam physicists found that asperities on two touching surfaces interact similarly to pedestrians at a crossing, leading to an increase in surface sliding and decrease in static friction. This phenomenon has applications in semiconductor manufacturing and earthquake prediction.
The team demonstrated the existence of skyrmion bags of light on a metal layer, which exhibit extraordinary properties. By varying the degree to which the light fields were twisted relative to one another, researchers can manipulate light fields in a targeted manner.
The U.S. Naval Research Laboratory is hosting a family-friendly event to demonstrate military medical innovations, including virtual reality and medical simulation. The exhibit features devices developed to combat COVID-19 and protect against deadly insects.
A team of researchers used computer code M3D-C1 to model different valve configurations and found that six gas valves provide optimal protection for rapidly dispersing cooling gas. The study's findings will help bring fusion power closer to reality by advancing disruption mitigation strategies.
Three PPPL researchers, Frances Kraus, Jason Parisi, and Willca Villafana, are recognized for their innovative contributions to plasma physics. Their work covers various areas, including high-temperature fusion plasmas and low-temperature plasma simulations.
Physicists have created a new code, QUADCOIL, to design stellarators, which could lead to simpler and more affordable fusion facilities. The code helps balance physics and engineering by quickly ruling out unstable plasma shapes and predicting magnet complexities.
The Global Physics Summit will feature nearly 1,200 sessions and 14,000 presentations on various topics, including astrophysics, climate science, medicine, and quantum information. Registered journalists and public information officers will receive daily emails with meeting information.
New research exposes samples to superheated plasma, revealing that carbon is the main cause of trapped fuel. The study aims to improve materials for future fusion power plants like ITER by minimizing carbon content.
Researchers develop novel methods to visualize and understand gas flow dynamics in plasma arc cutting, improving cut quality and efficiency. They found that curved cutting fronts result in oblique shockwave structures, which reduce flow velocity and can lead to safer and more efficient dismantling of nuclear facilities.
Discounted hotel rates available at select hotels near the Anaheim Convention Center. The Global Physics Summit will feature nearly 14,000 individual presentations on new research in various fields.
The NRL's Mercury Pulsed Power Facility has enabled significant advancements in flash x-ray radiography and nuclear material detection. The facility has been used to develop advanced flash radiography sources and detectors for the Department of Energy and Department of Defense.
Researchers have developed a new recipe for making flash memory that uses hydrogen fluoride plasma to create narrow, deep holes twice as fast. This breakthrough aims to address the growing demand for denser data storage in electronic devices.
A simulation study clarifies the physical mechanism of coupled plasma fluctuations, which can lead to significant losses of energetic particles in fusion research. The study reveals that the two fluctuations occur in a coupled manner via deformation of the energetic particle distribution function.
Elena Belova, a theoretical physicist, developed complex simulations of plasmas in fusion experiments. Yevgeny Raitses, an experimental researcher, contributed to low-temperature plasma and diagnostics research. Both were honored as Distinguished Research Fellows at PPPL.
The Laboratory for Laser Energetics at the University of Rochester has launched an IFE-STAR ecosystem to develop a clean, safe, and virtually limitless energy source. The initiative aims to accelerate fusion science and technology by building a national network of coordination and collaboration.
The American Physical Society's joint March Meeting and April Meeting will convene more than 14,000 physicists from around the world to present new research in various fields. The conference will be held in person in Anaheim, California and online everywhere March 16-21.
Researchers at Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory have developed a technique to prevent unwanted waves that siphon off needed energy, increasing the efficiency of fusion reactions. Positioning a metal grate at a slight angle enhances heat put into the plasma and reduces slow modes, leading to more powerful and efficient fusion heating.
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.
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.
A new approach could overcome major barriers to practical fusion energy production by adjusting fuel properties using spin polarization. This method could increase tritium burn efficiency, reducing the amount needed and lowering operating costs.
Scientists at DOE's Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory perfect processes for growing diamond at lower temperatures without sacrificing quality. The breakthrough could enable the implementation of diamond in silicon-based manufacturing, opening a door for advanced electronics and sensors.
A team led by Sayak Bose has made significant progress in understanding the underlying heating mechanism of coronal holes. They found that reflected plasma waves can cause turbulence and heat coronal holes, providing the first experimental verification of Alfvén wave reflection.