The Future of Nuclear Physics: Advances in Controlled Fusion for Sustainable Energy

Abstract

Nuclear fusion has become one of the main research directions in the search of the sustainable and high-efficiency energy options. In contrast to other fission, fusion is characterized by rich fuel supply, low radioactive wastes, and high energy concentration. Continued progress in the area of plasma confinement technology, superconducting materials, and computer modeling has made controlled fusion an eventual reality. The paper has examined the different technological developments and scientific innovations that have been behind the development of nuclear fusion as a potential source of energy in the future. An analysis and description review was thorough and incorporated the results of similar fusion developments around the world, including International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER), Soonest/Smallest Private-Funded Affordable Robust Compact (SPARC) and National Ignition Facility (NIF). Peer-reviewed journals, technical report and experimental databases were used as the sources of data. It has analyzed magnetic and inertial confinement systems, stability of the plasma, and how advanced materials are being used in improving the performance of the reactor. The correlations between the experimental and theoretical parameters were correlated by using computational modeling and statistical validation. Findings indicated that there was great improvement in both confinement techniques. Magnetic systems had a higher plasma stability and a longer confinement time and the inertial systems had a better compression symmetry and near- ignition conditions. Some of these materials such as tungsten, Reduced Activation Ferritic-Martensitic (RAFM) steels, Yttrium Barium Copper Oxide (YBCO) superconductors, among others, enhanced the efficiency and longevity of the reactor, bringing fusion to the brink of commercial viability. The results proved that controlled nuclear fusion has passed the stage of theoretical research to the technical feasibility. Fusion energy is going to be a pillar of carbon-neutral and renewable power generation by the global community, material innovation and optimization via computers.