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German Startup Proxima Fusion Aims to Revolutionize Energy with Fusion Power

Proxima Fusion, a startup based in Germany, has unveiled an ambitious plan to harness the potential of nuclear fusion, promising a pathway to generate unlimited energy in a reliable power plant setting. This breakthrough is noteworthy because nuclear fusion produces vast amounts of energy with zero carbon emissions, contrasting sharply with nuclear fission, which results in hazardous radioactive waste.

The company, which was established two years ago, shared its vision in the journal Fusion Engineering and Design, aiming to contribute to the scientific community and promote open-source principles in research. Proxima Fusion is committed to making clean energy accessible and is positioned at the leading edge of fusion research, particularly focusing on the innovation of stellarators as the future of power generation.

A stellarator is a type of magnetic confinement fusion device designed to maintain plasma in a toroidal shape. This technology allows for greater manipulation of plasma particles, facilitating fusion reactions with enhanced stability compared to the commonly used tokamaks. Proxima Fusion’s Stellaris design illustrates how a fusion plant can operate consistently and efficiently, overcoming the challenges associated with tokamaks, such as their tendency for instability and operational disruptions.

The scientists at Proxima Fusion have stated, “We summarize a comprehensive reactor study, ranging from optimization of the plasma confinement region to first wall cooling, divertor considerations, blanket design, magnet quench safety, support structures, and remote maintenance solutions.” This detailed study underscores the company’s thorough approach to solving the complexities of fusion energy production.

Francesco Sciortino, co-founder and CEO, emphasized the urgency and potential of their project, asserting, “Our American friends can see it. Our Chinese friends can see it. Our claim is that we can execute on this faster than anyone else, and we do that by creating a framework for integrated physics, engineering, and economics. So we’re not a science project anymore.” Sciortino’s comments reflect a growing confidence in the commercialization of fusion technology and its role in the global energy landscape.

Fusion power plants could play a crucial role in supplying clean, dependable energy, paving the way for a more sustainable future while enhancing global health outcomes. In parallel, other firms like Commonwealth Fusion Systems, Helical Fusion, Zap Energy, and Marathon Fusion are also advancing fusion energy technologies, suggesting a robust competitive environment in this innovative sector.

Proxima Fusion achieved a significant milestone by completing its Stellaris design one year ahead of schedule, supported by funding from the German government, the European Union, and various venture capital investors. The startup aims to have a fully operational fusion reactor by 2031, positioning itself as a frontrunner in the global race towards commercial fusion energy.

For those interested in following the evolution of Proxima Fusion and its technology, further information can be found on their official website.

Source
tech.yahoo.com