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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.
B. Nelson, T. Burgess, T. Brown, H-M Fan, P. Heitzenroeder
Fusion Science and Technology | Volume 39 | Number 2 | March 2001 | Pages 412-416
Advanced Designs | doi.org/10.13182/FST01-A11963270
Articles are hosted by Taylor and Francis Online.
The design status of the vacuum vessel for the Fusion Ignition Research Experiment (FIRE) is presented. The purpose and configuration of the various components of the vessel are described, along with the results of preliminary structural analysis. It appears that a vessel can be designed to meet the requirements within the rather restricted space constraints.
