When laser beams meet plasma: New data addresses gap in fusion research

DECEMBER 2, 2019 by University of Rochester New research from the University of Rochester will enhance the accuracy of computer models used in simulations of laser-driven implosions. The research, published in the journal Nature Physics, addresses one of the challenges in scientists’ longstanding quest to achieve fusion. In laser-driven inertial confinement fusion (ICF) experiments, such as the experiments conducted at …

Blowing bubbles: Scientist confirms novel way to launch and drive current in fusion plasmas

NOVEMBER 18, 2019 by Raphael Rosen, Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory An obstacle to generating fusion reactions inside facilities called tokamaks is that producing the current in plasma that helps create confining magnetic fields happens in pulses. Such pulses, generated by an electromagnet that runs down the center of the tokamak, would make the steady-state creation of …

From a cloud of cold and a spark, researchers create and stabilize pure polymeric nitrogen for the first time

NOVEMBER 14, 2019 by Drexel University Scientists have long theorized that the energy stored in the atomic bonds of nitrogen could one day be a source of clean energy. But coaxing the nitrogen atoms into linking up has been a daunting task. Researchers at Drexel University’s C&J Nyheim Plasma Institute have finally proven that it’s experimentally …

MIT graduate student slices microwave pulses to test advanced accelerators

Julian Picard: Chopping microwaves, sharpening instincts Paul Rivenberg | MIT | Plasma Science and Fusion Center August 12, 2019 “Looking through microscopes has never been my thing,” says Julian Picard. As a graduate student in the Department of Physics, Picard works with the invisible world of particles and electromagnetic waves every day, yet he is motivated …