The fusion reactor KSTAR sets a record: it holds the plasma longer than ever

Scientists are studying nuclear fusion technology using various experimental devices. One of

reactors for such synthesis -tokamak KSTAR - located at the Korea Institute of Fusion Energy. Scientists who work with it have taken an important step forward. They managed to maintain the plasma temperature in it at a level of 100 million °C for 30 seconds. This was made possible by optimizing the magnetic field conditions and reactor heating systems. Previously, in 2018, KSTAR maintained this temperature for only 1.5 seconds, in 2019 - eight seconds, and already in December last year - 20 seconds.

The goal of scientists is to maintain the plasma temperature at100 million °C for 300 seconds by 2026. The project is being implemented by upgrading the power supply and using a tungsten diverter, which will prevent the temperature of the internal walls of the chamber from increasing.

The idea behind fusion energy isrecreation of the processes taking place inside the Sun. Huge gravitational forces, combined with intense heating and pressure, create a plasma in which nuclei collide with each other at high speed, forming helium and releasing energy.

Tokamaks are meant to recreate thisprocess here on Earth. They have special coils, they are placed around the reactor and they hold the plasma with the help of a magnetic field, heated to millions of degrees. The main thing is to hold it long enough for the nuclei to merge.

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