Global research teams are joining forces to tackle the world’s energy crisis, harnessing the power of fusion as a reliable energy source. Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) is leading several collaborative efforts, including the development of the SMall Aspect Ratio Tokamak (SMART) at the University of Seville in Spain. This pioneering fusion device combines spherical tokamak and negative triangularity technologies, offering promising solutions for future compact fusion reactors. The collaboration leverages PPPL’s expertise in areas like magnetics, sensor systems, and plasma simulations, ensuring a comprehensive approach to advancing fusion energy research.
Innovations — Spherical Fusion
This spherical shape of the SMART tokamak features better plasma confinement than traditional donut-shaped designs. When combined with the use of negative triangularity, this novel approach is intended to quench instabilities and enhance the overall performance of the fusion reactor.
The expertise at PPPL derived from its extensive research on the spherical tokamak provides a foundation for WORKING as well. Researchers at the lab have applied its simulation software, TRANSP, to model aspects of device performance and have provided invaluable input for how to configure neutral beams used to heat plasma.
Plasma Analysis — Diagnostic Innovations
An important part of the collaboration is making sure that we measure and analyze the SMART tokamak plasma as accurately as possible. PPPL scientists are combining the design and development of numerous novel diagnostics like a Thompson scattering system and multi-energy soft X-ray (MExsxr) diagnostic.
Using these cutting-edge diagnostics to analyze electron temperature and density, as well as impurity content in the plasma, researchers can tweak this tokamak for optimal performance. In another investigation, spectrometers and magnetic diagnostic systems are coming together to give a comprehensive view the fusion reactions going on inside the SMART tokamak.
R3 Fostering the Future of Fusion Specialists
In addition to its technical contribution, the partnership between PPPL and the University of Seville has broader features associated with the SMART project. The excitement of getting to learn from such a lively committee has picked up and the enthusiasts in the research teams have reveled at the opportunity of mentoring and providing hundreds of young minds, an experience filled with learning.
This intergenerational exchange will be important to not only the momentum of the SMART project, but also the continued success of next-generation fusion researchers. The students bring a level of enthusiasm, and new perspectives that is simply-well invaluable 8 in addressing the challenges we face in developing fusion energy. Through investment in the youngest minds, this partnership can create a very bright future for fusion energy.
