Saturday Physics, "The Negative Triangularity Tokamak: Power Handling in a Fusion Power Plant"
Presented by: Dr. Oak Nelson, Columbia University
Date: Saturday, September 28, 2024
Abstract: The pursuit of commercial fusion energy, which could provide a clean and effectively limitless power source for humanity, is often heralded as one of the most important and difficult scientific endeavors of our time. One of the leading approaches for fusion, the tokamak, uses magnetic fields to confine a hot and dense plasma inside a vacuum vessel, akin to holding a star in a magnetic bottle. Just like you might imagine, however, it is difficult to hold a star in place without creating tremendous heat fluxes that would melt the machine walls. Fortunately, fusion scientists have discovered a new way to control the shape of the plasma that may provide a robust solution to the power-handling problem in tokamaks. This special regime, called "negative triangularity," establishes a rapid path forward towards a commercial fusion energy system.
The Saturday Physics Series consists of talks oriented toward adults and high school students. Lectures usually last about one hour. Material is aimed at the level of high school juniors and seniors. The series is free, open to the public, and no reservations are required. Simply show up and enjoy the show!
http://physics.colorado.edu/saturday