The Dalton Nuclear Institute at the University of Manchester is steering the nuclear research landscape, pushing boundaries in energy production, medical applications, and national security. The Institute’s comprehensive approach, spanning fission, fusion, medical applications, and social sciences, positions it as a linchpin in the UK’s nuclear research ecosystem. The Institute’s work is not just about advancing technology; it’s about training the next generation of nuclear scientists and engineers, fostering global collaboration, and addressing the pressing challenges of climate change and energy security.
Nuclear materials are the backbone of this endeavor. They enable the operation of fission reactors that power our grids and the development of fusion reactors that promise a future of clean, abundant energy. In medicine, nuclear materials facilitate diagnoses and treatments, saving lives and improving health outcomes. In national security, they play a crucial role in safeguarding our nations. The Dalton Nuclear Institute is at the forefront of developing materials that can withstand the extreme conditions of fission and fusion reactors, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
Nuclear fusion, the process that powers the Sun, holds immense promise. It involves fusing two atoms to release energy, a process that, if harnessed on Earth, could provide a stable baseload of electricity. “Fusion is considered a green source of energy as it does not release carbon dioxide into the atmosphere,” says Aneeqa Khan from the Dalton Nuclear Institute. However, recreating the conditions of the Sun’s core on Earth is a monumental challenge. Temperatures of around 100 million degrees Celsius are required, along with precise control of plasma density and confinement. Despite these hurdles, progress is being made. The Institute is working on developing materials that can withstand the high-energy neutrons and extreme heat loads associated with fusion, as well as demonstrating a burning plasma and remote handling techniques.
The primary research objectives in nuclear fusion are clear: achieve net engineering energy gain, develop robust materials, handle tritium, confine plasma, and demonstrate remote maintenance. These objectives are not just about advancing science; they’re about addressing the challenges of energy production in a world grappling with climate change. “We need to be throwing everything we have at the climate crisis,” says Patrick Hackett from the Dalton Nuclear Institute. This includes investing in fusion for the long term while using existing technologies like fission and renewables in the near term.
The challenges in nuclear fusion are significant, but so are the potential rewards. Safety is a key concern, but as Hackett points out, “Every technology has associated risks. Fission and fusion have the systems in place to manage these risks.” The Institute is also tackling the issue of nuclear waste, working on safe, secure, and environmentally responsible storage solutions. Their research is closely aligned with industry needs, ensuring that academic work translates into real-world solutions.
Beyond energy, fusion technology has potential applications in transportation and industry. Process heat generation, for instance, could revolutionize industries that require large amounts of heat. Moreover, the enabling technologies developed for fusion, such as high-temperature superconducting magnets and robotics, have wide-ranging applications.
The timeline for achieving successful nuclear fusion is uncertain, but the potential is undeniable. “Fusion has the potential to be part of a green energy mix in the latter half of the century,” says Hackett. Achieving this will require sustained investment, global collaboration, and a commitment to training the next generation of nuclear scientists and engineers. The Dalton Nuclear Institute is leading the charge, driving innovation, and shaping the future of nuclear energy. Their work is a testament to the power of research and collaboration in addressing the world’s most pressing challenges. As the nuclear landscape evolves, the Institute’s contributions will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping a sustainable energy future.