Scientists from the Princeton Laboratory of Plasma Physics (PPPL) have made a breakthrough discovery in the field of fusion energy reactors. Under the leadership of Chang Liu, the team has introduced a new approach to reduce the effects of harmful uncontrollable electrons in Tokamak installations, which is of significant importance for future thermonuclear energy projects, including ITER in France.
By using a special type of plasma wave known as Alfven waves, the researchers aim to address the issue of uncontrollable electrons caused by violations in Tokamak. Previously, it was believed that Alfven waves weakened the retention of high-energy particles in Tokamak, rendering them less effective. However, recent studies have shown that these waves can actually prevent the transformation of uncontrollable electrons into damaging “avalanches” within the components of Tokamak. This discovery reveals a circular relationship where the instability caused by uncontrollable electrons gives rise to Alfven waves, which subsequently inhibit the formation of avalanches.
The researchers, led by Liu, have successfully observed Alfven waves in experiments and deduced the theory behind this circular relationship. The results from their experiments on the DIII-D, a national installation of thermonuclear synthesis controlled by General Atomics, aligned with their theory.
Felix Parra Diaz, the head of the theory department in PPPL, believes that Liu’s studies can potentially lead to the development of Tokamaks that can naturally reduce damage from uncontrollable electrons due to internal instability. This is a significant advantage in the pursuit of thermonuclear reactions which release a vast amount of energy, similar to the sun and stars.
The new approach discovered by the PPPL team could be a crucial step in the advancement of energy-core power plants. It holds great importance for ITER, an international Tokamak currently under construction in France.
Chang Liu expressed the significance of their discoveries, stating, “Our findings establish a foundation for the development of new strategies to minimize the impact of uncontrollable electrons.” The team plans to conduct further experimental studies to enhance their results.