Nuclear fusion energy: why, how and when. The comprehensive solution

The main advantages of fusion energy are the fact that it is a virtually inexhaustible fuel that does not generate long-lasting radioactive waste or emit greenhouse gases.

Research into fusion commenced in parallel with stellar astrophysics; thus, the then incipient field of nuclear physics enabled scientists to begin explaining the origin of the energy of the stars, among other important questions. These research studies enabled us to understand the period between the Big Bang up to the evolution of the life of the stars. Furthermore, nuclear fusion has also helped us to understand the origin of all the chemical elements that exist in the universe.

Of the two procedures postulated for the production of energy, the one that is most advanced today is based on magnetism. The construction of the international experimental reactor ITER - the aim of which is to demonstrate, using fusion, the possibility of producing heat in a controlled manner - will become a reality in Cadarache in the near future. It is a highly important stage toward reaching the object of this seminar: producing energy. We will be offering a short explanation of the principles on which this process is based.

As for the inertial channel, it has many more applications, from simulating nuclear weapons to laboratory astrophysics, as well as energy production.

Within this scenario, high-power lasers are currently being built in France (Làser Mega Joule) and the United States (National Ignition Facilities) with the aim of obtaining thermonuclear fire within tiny fuel balls.

At the end of the lecture there will be a presentation of the inertial channel, which is still unknown among the wider public.