UK tests groundbreaking tech for next-gen nuclear fusion
Inspired by China's successes, the United Kingdom is testing new superconductor technology in nuclear fusion reactors. Tokamak Energy aims to revolutionize the nuclear energy sector. The application of this technology could potentially produce energy almost four million times greater than that obtained from oil or coal. Whether this invention will change the future of energy remains an open question.
The British company Tokamak Energy is working on new superconductor technology that could transform nuclear fusion reactors. The REBCO material, on which scientists are working, has the potential to generate a strong magnetic field, which is necessary to maintain plasma at the proper temperature.
A revolutionary invention to maintain plasma
Plasma, the fourth state of matter, is crucial for the nuclear fusion process. In reactors, it must reach a temperature of 212 million degrees Fahrenheit, a feat that has been difficult to achieve so far. Researchers are developing new technology that could significantly improve the efficiency of tokamaks, which, in turn, will accelerate the development of fusion reactors.
China's record result
The Chinese Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak reactor in Hefei set a record by maintaining stable plasma for 17 minutes. This achievement indicates that unlimited energy sources are getting closer to becoming a reality. British scientists hope their work will contribute to the further development of this technology.
Despite progress, scientists are still grappling with the problem of plasma stability and heat dissipation. REBCO could open up new possibilities, but researchers still face many challenges. It is anticipated that the first functioning prototypes of reactors could appear as early as 2040.
REBCO superconductor technology is smaller and more efficient than previous solutions. This advancement could accelerate the development of fusion reactors, which have the potential to generate energy four million times greater than burning oil or coal.
