Scientists achieve major breakthrough in the quest for limitless energy: 'It's setting a world record'

Fusion is seen as the ultimate solution for the energy sector, promising clean, abundant power with minimal environmental impact and without relying on local natural resources. Recent advancements have marked a significant milestone with a new record in magnetic containment.

The Wisconsin HTS Axisymmetric Mirror research team has achieved a breakthrough by using a magnetic field strength of 17 Tesla to contain plasma, as reported by Interesting Engineering. This was made possible through the use of high-temperature superconductor magnets provided by Commonwealth Fusion Systems. The system was recently delivered to the University of Wisconsin’s Physical Sciences Laboratory in Stoughton, Wisconsin. The project is a collaboration between the university and Realta Fusion, Inc., a spin-off company that helps fund the research.

Jay Anderson, a co-founder of Realta Fusion and a scientist at UW-Madison, highlighted that this setup has set a world record for magnetic field strength used to confine plasmas. It also features advanced heating systems and serves as a practical experiment for both graduate and undergraduate students.

The current design improves on an older fusion device called the magnetic mirror, upgraded with powerful HTS magnets that trap plasma in what is termed a "magnetic bottle". Unlike nuclear fission, which powers conventional nuclear plants, fusion involves combining two atomic nuclei to create a new atom, releasing energy in a manner similar to the sun.

Frank Laukien, a German-American physicist and entrepreneur, emphasized the importance of fusion for a fully renewable energy supply. He noted that fusion could play a crucial role in achieving a decarbonized future.

The potential benefits of fusion are significant, offering the possibility to generate the same energy from a gram of fuel as from 11 tons of coal, but without harmful carbon emissions. Both the United States and Japan are investing in the further development and commercialization of fusion energy, with new innovations being explored, including methods that do not rely on traditional magnets and lasers.

Realta Fusion CEO Kieran Furlong stated that the recent demonstration represents a major step forward in the quest for commercial fusion energy, highlighting its potential to provide economically viable, zero-carbon heat and electricity.

Despite these advances, as Laukien pointed out, it's essential to continue developing solar and wind energy projects while pursuing fusion technology, which is still years away from widespread use.

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