Replicating fusion, the power source of the stars, here on Earth has been a great challenge ever since the first experiments took place in the 1950s. Today, scientists and engineers continue to make new discoveries, bringing this virtually limitless energy source closer to the present. Over the years, a variety of experimental fusion devices have been designed and constructed, including tokamaks, stellarators and laser-based technology, to advance the promise of fusion energy and one day drastically transform the way we generate energy.
There are currently over 130 experimental public and private fusion devices operating, in construction or planned around the world, based on different approaches to producing fusion reactions and having a variety of designs. To review this multitude of devices, the IAEA has published a new report World Survey of Fusion Devices 2022, which further elaborates the information available on the IAEA’s online database called Fusion Device Information System (FusDIS).
“When it is realized, fusion would benefit every country and work alongside nuclear energy and other forms of sustainable energy, supporting climate change mitigation and contributing to the energy mix,” said Matteo Barbarino, an IAEA Nuclear Plasma Fusion Specialist. “Fusion could benefit virtually every country and that is one of the reasons why it is so important.”
“All over the world, researchers and engineers are exploring different fusion device designs to move progress forward,” he continued. “And our new publication provides a comprehensive overview of fusion research and development activities from the perspective of those devices capabilities.”
Nuclear fusion is a process in which atomic nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus, releasing a large amount of energy. However, achieving sustained and controlled fusion reactions in a practical setting is associated with a number of scientific and technical challenges. To keep such a reaction going, the fuel — usually isotopes of hydrogen — must be confined and maintained at intense pressures and extremely high temperatures several times hotter than the core of the Sun.
Considerable progress continues to be made. More than 30 countries have carried out experiments with different types of fusion devices, often successfully achieving fusion reactions, although for short periods and without generating yet useful amounts of energy.
All over the world, researchers and engineers are exploring different fusion device designs to move progress forward and our new publication provides a comprehensive overview of fusion research and development activities from the perspective of those devices capabilities.
