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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.
R. L. Miller, R. A. Krakowski, C. G. Bathke, C. Copenhaver, N. M. Schnurr, A, G. Engelhardt, T. J. Seed, R. M. Zubrin
Fusion Science and Technology | Volume 10 | Number 3 | November 1986 | Pages 1153-1158
Fusion Reactor Design—II | doi.org/10.13182/FST86-A24886
Articles are hosted by Taylor and Francis Online.
Results of a preliminary conceptual design of a magnetic fusion reactor based on the spherical torus (tokamak), characterized by high first-stability-regime beta values at low aspect ratio and moderate vertical elongation of the plasma, are described. The concept incorporates resistive (demountable) toroidal-field coils, a double-null poloidal-field magnetic divertor, and the potential for oscillating-field current drive to allow steady-state operation. The physics basis, design-point determination, and fusion-power-core engineering are summarized.