"Optimizing Plasma Fusion: Fueling the Fire Just Right"
Researchers at the U.S. Department of Energy's Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory have determined the maximum density of neutral particles at the edge of a fusion plasma inside the Lithium Tokamak Experiment-Beta (LTX-β) before the edge starts to cool, potentially leading to stability problems. Their work aims to show that a lithium wall can enable a smaller fusion reactor with higher power density, ultimately leading to a cost-effective fusion power source for the power grid. The researchers are refining methods for retaining an even temperature across the plasma and are investigating the role of edge neutrals in achieving flat temperature profiles and managing tearing mode activity.