In a significant advancement for nuclear fusion research, a team led by N. Bonanomi from the Istituto per la Scienza e Tecnologia dei Plasmi and the Max Planck Institute for Plasma Physics has published groundbreaking findings on the Divertor Tokamak Test facility (DTT). This research, featured in the journal ‘Nuclear Fusion,’ presents an integrated modeling workflow that predicts the evolution of plasma profiles under various operational scenarios, a crucial step in the quest for sustainable and commercially viable fusion energy.
The DTT aims to explore reactor-relevant conditions that have remained largely uncharted by existing tokamaks. By employing sophisticated transport codes, including ASTRA and TGLF-SAT2, alongside neoclassical models like NCLASS, the researchers have meticulously simulated the plasma’s behavior across the entire confined radius. Their simulations encompass critical phases of operation, from the initial limiter configuration to the current ramp-up in L-mode divertor configuration, and into the H-mode phase that is essential for efficient energy production.
Bonanomi emphasizes the potential of these findings, stating, “The DTT’s ability to operate in H-mode for approximately 30 seconds during its flat-top phase opens up new avenues for understanding power exhaust mechanisms.” This capability is vital, as managing heat and particle exhaust is one of the primary challenges in making fusion a practical energy source. The research indicates that the DTT can maintain plasma parameters that facilitate an integrated study of these exhaust processes, aligning with the facility’s mission to enhance our understanding of fusion technology.
The implications of this research extend beyond academia. As the world increasingly pivots toward sustainable energy solutions, advancements in fusion technology could play a pivotal role in meeting future energy demands. The DTT’s flexibility in plasma scenarios allows it to investigate conditions that are critical for the development of commercial fusion reactors, potentially leading to breakthroughs that could transform the energy landscape.
As Bonanomi notes, “The strong flexibility of DTT plasmas means we can study conditions that are not currently accessible, bringing us closer to realizing the dream of clean, limitless energy.” This research not only enhances our scientific understanding but also positions the DTT as a key player in the future of energy production.
For those interested in the detailed findings, the full article can be found in the journal ‘Nuclear Fusion,’ or in Italian, “Fusione Nucleare.” More about the lead author’s work can be explored at the Istituto per la Scienza e Tecnologia dei Plasmi.
