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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.
Neill P. Taylor
Fusion Science and Technology | Volume 47 | Number 4 | May 2005 | Pages 959-966
Technical Paper | Fusion Energy - Tritium, Safety, and Environment | doi.org/10.13182/FST05-A812
Articles are hosted by Taylor and Francis Online.
Studies of the safety and environmental impacts of fusion, both of future power plants and of ITER, have shown that a good performance can be achieved. Although it is difficult to anticipate the regulatory regime in which future fusion power stations will be licensed, the areas of public and occupational safety and short and long-term environmental impact are likely to remain important. In each of these areas, the outcome of various studies have been reviewed, leading to a list of issues which should be given attention to facilitate eventual licensing of a fusion power plant. Many of these relate to reducing conservatisms and uncertainties in the analyses, but also included are improved understanding of tritium retention and of dust generation, and development of materials to provide long component lifetimes. A full appraisal is also recommended of the viability of recycling of active materials after end of plant life.