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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, K. A. Werley, R. L. Hagenson
Fusion Science and Technology | Volume 10 | Number 3 | November 1986 | Pages 1159-1164
Fusion Reactor Design—II | doi.org/10.13182/FST86-A24887
Articles are hosted by Taylor and Francis Online.
The poloidal-field-dominated confinement properties of the Reversed-Field Pinch (RFP) are exploited to examine physics and technical issues related to compact, high-power-density fusion reactors. Past studies of the Compact RFP Reactor (CRFPR) were based on a liquid-metal-cooled fusion power core (FPC) that confined high-density plasma at high beta with fields generated by resistive coils. These early framework studies combine with a better conceptual understanding of RFP confinement, impurity control, and current drive to justify further study. A comprehensive systems and trade study has been conducted as part of an ongoing in-depth reactor assessment. Optimal reactor designs, directions, and design sensitivities emerging from this study are described.