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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.
Wallace Manheimer
Fusion Science and Technology | Volume 36 | Number 1 | July 1999 | Pages 1-15
Technical Paper | doi.org/10.13182/FST99-A87
Articles are hosted by Taylor and Francis Online.
A return to fission fusion, and especially the development of the thorium cycle, is proposed as a means to revitalize magnetic fusion research. Recent history is analyzed, causes are sought for the current state of fusion research, and possibilities for how its prospects can be improved are examined. Recent tokamak results are also analyzed, and the conclusion is reached that a research tokamak reactor could now be built that could generate significant amounts of nuclear fuel. Finally, possible Naval involvement and environmental issues are discussed.