Japan has launched the FAST fusion project to achieve limitless energy by 2030.

The Fusion by Advanced Superconducting Tokamak (FAST) project aims to demonstrate an integrated fusion energy system that combines energy conversion, including electricity generation and fuel technologies, according to reports.

A tokamak configuration will be chosen under the project for its well-established data and scalability.

The project aims to address the remaining technical challenges en route to commercial fusion power plants.

High-temperature superconducting (HTS) coils

The plan is to use the high-temperature superconducting (HTS) coils and select the low aspect ratio tokamak to generate high-pressure plasmas in a compact size, compared to more conventional, larger tokamaks. Reducing the device size also helps to lower manufacturing times and costs.

This device will operate using novel technologies such as HTS coils, new low-activation materials, and deuterium production from seawater. FAST will be carried out in collaboration with a wide range of partners in the public and private sectors, both domestically and internationally.

The project includes achieving a sustained burning plasma, extracting and converting energy, demonstrating a tritium fuel cycle, and ensuring system integration and safety.

"FAST is the world's first initiative to extract fusion energy from a plasma while integratively demonstrating plasma sustainment and addressing engineering challenges. The project aims to achieve the demonstration of fusion energy power generation by the 2030s," claims the project in a statement.

Power generation of 50 MW to 100 MW

The system aims for a power generation of 50 MW to 100 MW and a discharge duration of 1000 seconds of D-T fusion burn. High-temperature blankets enable testing of multipurpose uses for thermal power and neutrons. The device is planned to operate for a cumulative 1000 hours of full-power operation, reported World Nuclear News.

"FAST is an apparatus designed to conduct comprehensive technical testing related to fusion plasmas and energy generation. It will contribute not only to the development of prototypes in Japan, but also to the safe and accelerated advancement of various fusion approaches around the world," added the project in the statement.

Preliminary design is expected to be completed by 2025

A conceptual design team will be organised, composed of plasma researchers and power plant engineering researchers, and the preliminary design is expected to be completed by the year 2025.

A thorough evaluation of the internal and external environment, including technology, funding, regulation and policy, will be conducted during the transition to detailed design, where a decision will be made on the feasibility of execution.

FAST aims to provide a comprehensive and unique platform to develop technologies applicable to practical fusion power plants worldwide, including demonstration devices and fusion pilot plants.

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