Oxford Sigma is thrilled to announce that the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA), through the Fusion Industry Programme (FIP) challenge scheme (Cycle 5 Phase 1), has funded two projects aimed at developing cutting-edge proof-of-concept studies for robust plasma diagnostic devices for fusion power plants. This funding marks a significant milestone in advancing plasma diagnostics technology, paving the way for more accurate and reliable measurements in fusion research – as well as crucial lifetime extension for fusion devices.
A fusion power plant must extract heat from the plasma to generate usable power. The plasma releases energy in the form of radiation through ions, X-rays and neutrons, which will impinge on the first-wall components. Some of these components protect the vessel and require shielding from irradiation and excessive heating to maintain structural integrity. Other components are essential in providing an understanding of the plasma’s behaviour during operations, through continuous monitoring by plasma facing diagnostic devices such as mirrors.
Project DEPARTED (Diagnostic Erosion Passive and in Real-Time and Environment Device) will explore methods for measuring first wall tile erosion in real-time, online. The failure of the first-wall could cause unwanted injection of coolant into the vacuum vessel, potentially shutting down the reactor and rendering the core offline based on considered accident scenarios. Therefore, it is crucial that information collection (via systems such as exhaust vacuum mass spectrometry) is rapid enough for a reactor operator or software control system to respond appropriately. Additionally, for commercial performance and safety, it is essential to monitor the condition of the first-wall materials online to predict failure points and schedule routine maintenance at appropriate intervals. This project will develop innovative technology to determine first-wall erosion and tile condition during fusion power plant operations, providing future operators with key information during full power operations.
Project PRISM (Performance and Resilience of Innovative Surfaces for Mirrors) aims to enhance the reliability of plasma diagnostic mirrors. Current leading designs have employed uncoated bulk metal mirrors, with materials consisting of stainless steel, copper, and molybdenum. However, these materials still exhibit damage due to the extreme fusion environment, which reduces their reflectivity and operational lifetime. Cleaning solutions, such as laser and plasma cleaning methods, are necessary to extend the mirrors’ operational life. However, these methods can degrade the mirror surface quality over repeated cycles, potentially causing critical damage. Project PRISM seeks to develop novel, robust, radiation-resistant mirrors specifically designed for fusion power plants.
“Oxford Sigma is delighted to be part of this progress towards Fusion Energy. The support of the UK government backing the development of fusion technology is a positive step towards UK net zero and developing necessary skills within the UK which are relevant to engineering globally.”
~ Mark Anderton, Senior Engineer and Project DEPARTED Manager, Oxford Sigma.
“ The development of robust and resilient diagnostic systems is a key aspect for the operation and control of future fusion plants. We are proud that our technology has been supported by the Fusion Industry Programme and are looking forward to proving its feasibility.”
~ Dr Diego Martínez de Luca, Senior Engineer and Project PRISM Manager, Oxford Sigma
About Oxford Sigma
Oxford Sigma is a Fusion Technology company with a vision to tackle energy security and climate change by accelerating the commercialisation of fusion energy. Our mission is to deliver materials technology, materials solutions, and fusion design services. Oxford Sigma aims to produce advanced materials technologies, agnostic to fusion approach, for the materials ecosystem. Our fusion core materials are engineered to enable longer term operations for fusion pilot plants, with the aim of roll out to the first-of-a-kind commercial power stations. Oxford Sigma is internationally recognised as a key fusion materials and technological leader.
Get in touch at [email protected]
About UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA)
UKAEA is the national organisation responsible for the research and delivery of sustainable fusion energy. It is an executive non-departmental public body, sponsored by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero.
UKAEA runs the fusion machine MAST-Upgrade (Mega Amp Spherical Tokamak) and is delivering the transition of JET from plasma operations to repurposing and decommissioning. The insights gained from this process will contribute to the advancement of sustainable future fusion power plants.
STEP (Spherical Tokamak for Energy Production) is a major technology and infrastructure programme that will demonstrate net energy from fusion, fuel self-sufficiency and a route to plant maintenance. UKAEA is STEP’s fusion partner and will work alongside STEP’s industry partners – one in engineering and one in construction – with the following short-list announced here.
The STEP programme is being delivered by UK Industrial Fusion Solutions Ltd (UKIFS) a wholly owned subsidiary of UKAEA Group. UKIFS will lead STEP’s integrated delivery team to design and build the prototype plant at West Burton site in Nottinghamshire, targeting first operations in 2040.
UKAEA is now engaging in Fusion Futures, a programme that aims to foster world-leading innovation whilst stimulating general industry capacity through international collaboration and the development of future fusion power plants.
UKAEA also undertakes cutting edge work with research organisations and the industrial supply chain in a wide spectrum of areas, including robotics and materials.
More information: https://www.gov.uk/ukaea. Social Media: @UKAEAofficial