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Fusion energy: Progress, partnerships, and the path to deployment
Over the past decade, fusion energy has moved decisively from scientific aspiration toward a credible pathway to a new energy technology. Thanks to long-term federal support, we have significantly advanced our fundamental understanding of plasma physics—the behavior of the superheated gases at the heart of fusion devices. This knowledge will enable the creation and control of fusion fuel under conditions required for future power plants. Our progress is exemplified by breakthroughs at the National Ignition Facility and the Joint European Torus.
David Petti, Kathryn McCarthy
Fusion Science and Technology | Volume 37 | Number 1 | January 2000 | Pages 1-23
Technical Paper | doi.org/10.13182/FST00-A117
Articles are hosted by Taylor and Francis Online.
Magnetic fusion energy has the potential for superior safety and environmental (S&E) characteristics relative to other energy options, which is one of the main reasons for developing fusion power. Excellent progress has been made in understanding the nature of the S&E concerns associated with fusion power and in demonstrating the S&E potential of fusion. Over the past 10 yr, U.S. fusion S&E activities have been largely focused on the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER). The design of ITER is such that the hazards addressed are similar to those of a future fusion power plant; hence, many of the safety issues addressed by ITER are relevant to commercial fusion power plants. This paper reviews the progress and accomplishments in fusion S&E activities performed largely in support of ITER over the past decade and discusses future directions in fusion safety design criteria development and implementation; characterization of the radioactive and hazardous materials in fusion and the potential energy sources that could mobilize those materials during an accident; integrated state-of-the-art safety and risk analysis tools, methods, and results; and development of environmental design criteria for radioactive and hazardous fusion waste minimization as well as the evaluation of recycle/reuse potential of fusion materials.