Extreme fusion temperatures are warping diamond fuel capsules, and that means researchers may need to rethink their designs, according to new research.
Every part of a fusion reactor is designed for maximum efficiency. Well, in theory, at least. In reality, the materials chosen to bring us closer to fusion don’t always perform as expected, leading to structural glitches that obstruct fusion reactions.
Diamond capsules used to safely store hydrogen fuel are no exception, but a new study offers some guidance for researchers hoping to preemptively address these material shortcomings. In a recent Matter paper, material scientists describe how the extreme pressures of fusion experiments introduce imperfections to the diamond capsule, ultimately compromising the experiment itself.
“These imperfections can disrupt the implosion symmetry, which in turn can reduce energy yield or even prevent ignition,” the researchers explained in a statement. Considering how costly and time-consuming each experimental run can be, paying close attention to understanding and improving diamond capsule designs could greatly benefit fusion projects, they added.
