What is the 'density-free regime' in nuclear fusion?

The 'density-free regime' is a state in nuclear fusion experiments where plasma density can exceed previously accepted limits without triggering instabilities or disruptions, allowing for better plasma confinement.

How did Chinese scientists achieve the density-free regime?

Scientists in China achieved the density-free regime by optimizing plasma-wall interactions through greater control in the early stages of their experiment, confirming the plasma-wall self-organization theory.

What are the future implications of breaking fusion density limits?

Breaking fusion density limits could accelerate the development of fusion energy, leading to more affordable, cleaner energy with fewer resources and less labor.

Home / Science / Fusion Breakthrough: China Shatters Density Limit

Fusion Breakthrough: China Shatters Density Limit

31 Jan

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Summary

Scientists achieved the 'density-free regime,' a critical fusion milestone.
This breakthrough could accelerate the development of clean fusion energy.
The experiment optimized plasma-wall interactions for stability.

Fusion Breakthrough: China Shatters Density Limit

Scientists in China have achieved a significant breakthrough in nuclear fusion research by successfully reaching the 'density-free regime,' a state previously considered a fundamental limit. This accomplishment, detailed in Science Advances, was made using China's Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak.

Nuclear fusion, the process of combining atoms to release vast amounts of clean energy, has long been a goal for sustainable power. However, tokamak experiments have been constrained by an upper density limit, beyond which instabilities threaten plasma confinement. The research team, led by Professor Ning Yan and Professor Ping Zhu, demonstrated that plasma density can surpass these limits without triggering disruptions.

This experiment provides the first empirical confirmation of the plasma-wall self-organization theory, which suggests stability is achievable when the reactor walls and plasma are balanced. By exercising greater control in earlier stages, the team optimized plasma-wall interactions, reduced energy loss, and minimized impurity buildup.