Scientists from BINP SB RAS have developed designs for components for an open-type thermonuclear magnetic trap

Russian physicists have completed the development of technical designs for two key elements of an experimental thermonuclear facility — a superconducting magnetovacuum system of the central section and a magnetovacuum system of end expanders. The work was carried out by specialists from the Budker Institute of Nuclear Physics SB RAS together with colleagues from the Institute of Applied Physics RAS.

3D model of GDTL in full
3D model of GDTL in full

The GDTL (gas-dynamic multi-mirror trap) is conceived as a demonstration stand for testing the concept of an economically viable thermonuclear reactor based on open magnetic systems. It is based on diamagnetic plasma confinement, enhanced by a multi-mirror scheme, helical confinement, heating by atomic injectors, and microwave radiation from gyrotrons. All these solutions rely on domestic developments in the field of controlled thermonuclear fusion.

Magnetic system and vacuum chamber of the central cell of GDTL
Magnetic system and vacuum chamber of the central cell of GDTL

For stable plasma confinement in the central section, a magnetic field with a strength of 1.5 Tesla is required — this indicator is achievable with the help of low-temperature superconductors, the technology of which has already been developed. In magnetic plugs, the calculated field values reach 16–20 Tesla, which directly affects the quality of confinement. Engineers have reached the limits of modern technical capabilities, especially when using high-temperature materials. superconductors.

The technical design of the central section and end expanders has been developed to a level that allows moving on to detailed drawing design and transferring tasks to high-tech production.

If the calculations are confirmed in practice, the gas-dynamic trap could become the basis for compact and environmentally friendly thermonuclear energy sources of the future.

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Sources:
IYaF SO RAN

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