Zoletnik Sándor (Fusion Plasma Physics Department, Centre for Energy Research):

ITER and the alternatives: quest for fusion energy

Abstract: Since 80 years, power generation using controlled nuclear fusion has been considered as the ultimate solution for the power-hungry mankind. The relevant nuclear reactions are well known, the uncontrolled solution has been long demonstrated by the H-bomb, but we still don’t have peaceful use. The reason is in the required extreme conditions for fusion: temperatures an order of magnitude above the center of Sun, extremely complex plasma physics processes an instabilities. Although there is still no final solution the technology and physics understanding has been progressing gradually, and a reactor-scale experiment is being constructed by 7 partners, representing more than half of the world population: the ITER device in southern France. Meanwhile new technologies offer alternatives, which are being pursued both by national laboratories an private enterprises. The talk gives an overview of the field, describes the technological and physics challenges and the various alternative ideas.

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