What is Avalanche's approach to nuclear fusion?

Avalanche is developing a miniaturized, desktop-sized nuclear fusion reactor that uses high-voltage electric currents and magnets to fuse plasma particles.

How much funding has Avalanche raised for its fusion reactor?

Avalanche has raised a total of $80 million, including a recent $29 million investment round.

When is Avalanche's new reactor expected to achieve net energy gain?

Avalanche's upcoming 25-centimeter reactor aims to achieve a Q>1 ratio, indicating net energy gain, with significant progress anticipated between 2027 and 2029.

Home / Science / Desktop Fusion: Tiny Reactor, Big Energy Hopes

Desktop Fusion: Tiny Reactor, Big Energy Hopes

3 Feb

•

Summary

Avalanche is developing a compact, desktop-sized nuclear fusion reactor.
The company recently secured $29 million in new funding, totaling $80 million.
A future 25 cm reactor aims for Q>1, indicating net energy gain.

Desktop Fusion: Tiny Reactor, Big Energy Hopes

Avalanche is pursuing a novel, miniaturized approach to nuclear fusion, aiming to develop a desktop-sized reactor. This strategy allows for rapid learning and iteration, a departure from the typically large-scale and costly nature of fusion research. The company recently announced a $29 million investment round led by R.A. Capital Management, adding to its total funding of $80 million.

The startup's method involves using high-voltage electric currents and magnets to confine and accelerate plasma particles until they fuse. This technique is significantly different from larger tokamak designs or laser-based compression methods employed by other fusion ventures. Avalanche's current reactor is only nine centimeters in diameter, but a forthcoming 25-centimeter version is anticipated to produce approximately 1 megawatt.