Feel free to talk about coworkers if you know someone who went this route.

https://preview.redd.it/xy5fozjncdyd1.png?width=2207&format=png&auto=webp&s=e3852bfb44e0f32dde64d987dd57377489a52b11

Comment on "ENN's roadmap for proton-boron fusion based on spherical torus" [Phys. Plasmas 31, 062507 (2024)] | alphaXiv

Hi everybody. I am a sophomore studying physics in college, and I want to eventually work with fusion energy. I want to start helping out with research at my school, however they don't study any related fields to fusion (i.e. plasma physics, nuclear physics, thermal physics, etc.) Especially for getting into grad school, is it important to research in that same field of physics for fusion during my undergrad?

https://pubs.aip.org/aip/pop/article/31/2/020602/3267722/From-KMS-Fusion-to-HB11-Energy-and-Xcimer-Energy-a

The quest for sustainable and clean energy has led to considerable interest in nuclear fusion as a potential solution. This essay explores an innovative design for a fusion core that utilizes a tungsten-copper alloy, high-temperature superconductors (HTS), and liquid lithium to optimize plasma containment and tritium breeding, ultimately aiming for enhanced safety and efficiency.

The proposed fusion core consists of a containment structure made from a tungsten-copper alloy. Tungsten is favored for its high melting point (around 3422°C), excellent thermal conductivity, and resistance to radiation damage, making it ideal for the extreme conditions of a fusion environment. Copper is included to enhance electrical conductivity, vital for the efficient operation of plasma confinement devices such as the z-pinch system.

The core features a two-layer design. The outer layer, formed from tungsten-copper, serves as a robust structural framework that withstands intense thermal and neutron loads. The inner layer is set at high pressure for confinement and keeping fuel dense. It also incorporates high-temperature superconductors (HTS) that can operate at temperatures achievable with liquid nitrogen or lower. These superconductors facilitate the generation of powerful magnetic fields essential for plasma confinement, reducing the energy losses typically associated with traditional superconductors.

Central to the core’s operation is a plasma system, designed to facilitate the fusion of deuterium and tritium (D-T) through the implementation of a z-pinch configuration. In this approach, an electric current is passed through the plasma, producing magnetic fields that pinch the plasma to achieve the necessary conditions for fusion—specifically, high temperature (over 100 million degrees Celsius) and pressure.

To initiate fusion, tritium is strategically injected into the plasma. The tritium, sourced from a small capsule, is released concurrently with liquid lithium from a larger capsule. This dual injection system ensures that the lithium serves a dual purpose: as a coolant and as a breeding material for additional tritium through the reaction with neutrons produced during fusion. The reaction produces tritium, thus closing the fuel cycle.

An innovative feature of this design is the incorporation of liquid lithium both as a coolant and as a lining within the outer carbon fiber cover. The carbon fiber material is lightweight yet strong, contributing to the structural integrity while enhancing heat dissipation. The liquid lithium layer serves as a thermal barrier, absorbing excess heat generated during fusion and preventing overheating of the containment structure. This cooling mechanism is critical for maintaining operational stability and extending the lifespan of the fusion core components.

Safety is paramount in any fusion system. The proposed design includes multiple fail-safes to mitigate risks associated with plasma containment failure or accidental release of tritium. Inside the Fusion core, containment core, lithium capsule and tritium capsule are vacuum sealed. First, a robust containment barrier prevents the escape of radioactive materials. Additionally, the design allows for rapid shutdown of the plasma system through magnetic confinement disruption if safety thresholds are exceeded.

Further, the separation of tritium and lithium injection systems minimizes the risk of unintended reactions prior to their intended release into the plasma. Finally, monitoring systems can continuously assess plasma conditions, with automated adjustments made to maintain safe operational parameters.

This conceptual fusion core design, leveraging a tungsten-copper alloy, high-temperature superconductors, and liquid lithium, proposes a multi-faceted approach to achieve efficient nuclear fusion. By addressing key challenges such as plasma containment, fuel breeding, thermal management, and safety, this design could contribute significantly to the advancement of fusion technology. While many technical challenges remain, the innovative integration of materials and systems illustrates the potential pathways towards achieving sustainable fusion energy. Further research and experimental validation will be essential to realize the full capabilities of this promising design.