France's WEST Tokamak Sets New Fusion Record with Tungsten Technology
The tungsten-clad WEST tokamak in France achieved a breakthrough by sustaining a plasma at 50 million degrees Celsius for six minutes, marking a significant advance in fusion energy research.
- The WEST reactor's recent experiment surpassed previous energy outputs by 15%, indicating improved efficiency and stability in fusion conditions.
- Tungsten, used for its heat-resistant properties, is proving crucial in overcoming the challenges of sustaining super-hot plasmas.
- Collaborative efforts at Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory emphasize the role of advanced diagnostics in enhancing fusion reactor performance.
- Researchers aim to apply insights gained from WEST to ITER, the next-generation tokamak under construction, which promises even greater advances.
- The fusion community views these developments as pivotal in the pursuit of a clean, limitless energy source for the future.