Nuclear Fusion
ITER
1M2-IQ
Table of contents
01 Nuclear Fusion
Requirements of
02 Nuclear Fusion
03 ITER
04 Key Technical Aspects
and Challenges
Introduction
In a world where energy demand is In this context, nuclear fusion is one
constantly rising and the need to of the most exciting prospects,
reduce greenhouse gas emissions is mimicking the Sun’s reactions to
more urgent than ever, the search for generate electricity, promising an
clean, sustainable, and eco-friendly extremely clean and limitless
energy sources has become essential. source.
“This is the energy of the universe”
—Vincent Tang
Nuclear
01 Fusion
What is nuclear fusion?
Nuclear fusion is a nuclear reaction where two nuclei of light atoms, typically hydrogen and its
isotopes (deuterium and tritium), combine to form a heavier nucleus, often releasing
particles in the process. These reactions can either absorb or release energy depending on
whether the nuclei's mass is greater or less than that of iron.
An example is the fusion occurring in the Sun, where hydrogen nuclei fuse to form helium,
releasing substantial energy as electromagnetic radiation, which we perceive as light and
heat.
.
Requirements
02 of Nuclear
Fusion
For fusion to occur, immense energy is required to bring the nuclei close enough for
nuclear attraction to overcome electrostatic repulsion.
• To achieve the necessary energy, particle accelerators can be used or extremely high
temperatures can be applied. The latter method, known as thermal fusion, involves heating
atoms until they form a gaseous mass called plasma, made up of free electrons and highly
ionized atoms.
• Additionally, it is essential to ensure the confinement and control of the hot plasma inside
the fusion reactor for the necessary duration to initiate the reaction.
• Sufficient plasma density is also required so that the nuclei are close enough to enable
fusion reactions.
03 ITER
ITER (International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor) is an ambitious
international project aimed at proving the feasibility of nuclear fusion as a viable
energy source. The concept of fusion involves replicating the process that powers
stars, where hydrogen isotopes (deuterium and tritium) fuse under extreme
temperatures (about 150 million °C) to form helium, releasing substantial energy.
Unlike fission, fusion produces minimal radioactive waste and poses no risk of
chain reactions.
ITER's roots trace back to the 1980s, when global energy demands and
environmental concerns prompted a collaborative approach. Officially initiated in
2006, the project brings together seven main members: the European Union, the
United States, Russia, China, India, Japan, and South Korea. The reactor is being
constructed in Cadarache, France, chosen for its expertise in nuclear technology.
Key Technical
04 Aspects and
Challenges
The heart of ITER is a tokamak, a doughnut-shaped magnetic confinement
device designed to sustain the plasma necessary for fusion. ITER aims to
produce ten times more energy than it consumes. However, challenges
include handling extreme temperatures, producing and containing tritium
fuel, and managing substantial costs and construction delays.
What is a Tokamak?
The term "Tokamak" comes from a
Russian acronym meaning "toroidal
chamber with magnetic coils." It is
an experimental machine designed
to harness fusion energy.
The energy generated is absorbed
as heat by the walls of the vessel. A
fusion power plant uses this heat to
produce steam, which is then
converted into electricity through
turbines and generators.
Conclusion
ITER represents a major step toward achieving sustainable and safe
energy production, potentially revolutionizing global energy systems if
successful.
However, it remains a highly complex project, with political, scientific,
and technical hurdles yet to overcome.
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Literature
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