schwit1 cites a report from Phys.Org. The Joint European Taurus (JET), one of the world's largest and most powerful fusion machines, has demonstrated its ability to reliably produce fusion energy while setting a world record for energy output. These remarkable achievements represent important milestones in the field of fusion science and engineering. JET's final deuterium-tritium experiment (DTE3) generated high fusion power for a steady five seconds, achieving a landmark record of 69 megajoules from just 0.2 milligrams of fuel.
JET is a tokamak, a design that uses a strong magnetic field to confine plasma in a donut shape. Most approaches to achieving commercial fusion recommend using two types of hydrogen: deuterium and tritium. When deuterium and tritium fuse, helium and huge amounts of energy are produced, and this reaction will form the basis of future fusion power plants. Dr. Fernanda Rimini, JET Senior Development Manager, said: “Fusion plasma can be reliably produced using the same fuel mixture used in commercial fusion energy power plants, and can be cultivated over time. “This allows us to demonstrate a high degree of specialized knowledge.”
Professor Ambrosio Fasoli, Program Manager (CEO) of EUROfusion, said: “The successful demonstration of operational scenarios for future fusion vehicles such as ITER and DEMO, validated by new energy records, is a major milestone in the development of fusion energy. We have set a new record, achieved something that has never been done before, and deepened our understanding of fusion physics.'' CEA's Eurofusion Tokamak Development Task Force Leader Dr Emmanuel Jofflin said: “Not only have we demonstrated a way to dampen the intense heat flowing from the plasma to the exhaust, but with JET we have also shown how the edge of the plasma can be maximized.'' Stated. ”
