Spanish scientists made a breakthrough in fusion energy, creating plasma in a reactor for the first time
Scientists from the University of Seville became the first in the world to successfully obtain plasma in an experimental SMART thermonuclear reactor. This installation is distinguished by an innovative configuration with a negative triangle, which opens up new possibilities in the field of thermonuclear fusion.
As stated in the article published in the magazine Nuclear Fusion, the SMART tokamak’s unique design has a number of advantages over traditional D-shapes. This approach makes it possible to more effectively control the instability of the plasma, reduce the load on the reactor walls, and optimize heat distribution.
The head of the project, Professor Manuel García Muñoz, noted that SMART is the first spherical tokamak capable of reaching the temperatures necessary for thermonuclear fusion. This achievement paves the way for the creation of compact reactors that can provide clean energy for industrial use.
The project is implemented within the Fusion2Grid program, the purpose of which is the development of compact thermonuclear power plants with magnetic confinement of plasma. The successful launch of the plasma using solenoid discharge technology confirmed the stability of SMART operation, demonstrating its potential as a basis for new energy technologies.
The high magnetic field and the innovative configuration of the reactor create opportunities for creating energy systems that will have a minimal impact on the environment. The development of SMART was an important step towards solving the global energy problem, bringing us closer to the implementation of clean and safe energy sources.
