The world’s largest experimental nuclear fusion reactor, JT-60SA, was inaugurated in Japan last Friday, marking a significant milestone in the early stages of a technology that is described as a potential solution to humanity’s future energy needs. Unlike nuclear fission, the technology currently used in nuclear power plants, fusion involves merging two atomic nuclei instead of splitting one.
The goal of the JT-60SA reactor is to study the feasibility of fusion as a safe, widespread, carbon-free energy source, with the potential to generate more energy than what is used in its production. Housed in a six-story building, which resembles an aircraft hangar in Naka, north of Tokyo, the facility contains a “tokamak” vessel designed to contain a swirling plasma heated to 200 million degrees Celsius.
The reactor is a joint project between the European Union and Japan, serving as a precursor to the larger International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) under construction in France. The ultimate aim of both projects is to merge hydrogen nuclei to form a heavier element, helium, releasing energy in the form of light and heat, and mimicking the process that occurs inside the sun.
Despite its ambitious goals, ITER has faced significant budget overruns, delays, and major technical challenges. However, researchers hope to achieve a breakthrough in nuclear fusion technology, producing clean energy. Sam Davis, Deputy Head of the JT-60SA project, stated that the device “brings us closer to fusion energy.” He highlighted the collaborative effort at the inauguration ceremony on Friday, involving more than 500 scientists, engineers, and over 70 companies from across Europe and Japan.
Unlike nuclear fission, nuclear fusion does not carry the risk of catastrophic nuclear accidents like the one that occurred in Fukushima, Japan, in 2011. Proponents also note that it produces far less radioactive waste than current power plants.
Japan has signaled a return to nuclear power under the leadership of Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. The plan involves restarting several idled nuclear plants and focuses on the development of next-generation reactors, marking a new phase in Japan’s approach to nuclear energy production. This move is set to stabilize Japan’s energy supply and aligns with the country’s broader strategic objectives. Additionally, Japan has committed to enhancing its nuclear technology capabilities through international cooperation. In collaboration with the United States and other global partners, Japan is bolstering the development of cutting-edge nuclear power technology. This initiative underlines Japan’s dedication to advancing its nuclear sector and reducing reliance on traditional energy sources, thereby strengthening its energy security and technological prowess in the nuclear domain.
