India’s Spherical Tokamak

Why in News?

The Institute for Plasma Research (IPR) in Gujarat has commissioned the nation’s first spherical tokamak and initiated plasma experimentation.

• Tokamak – It is a device that confines extremely hot plasma through the use of magnetic fields, enabling the conditions necessary for nuclear fusion.
• Rationale for Magnetic Confinement
  • At the temperatures required for fusion, matter exists in the plasma state and cannot be contained by conventional material walls.
  • Therefore, powerful magnetic fields are employed to confine and control the plasma.

• Benefits
• Large-scale electricity generation – It has the potential to produce substantial quantities of electricity on a continuous basis.
• Low-carbon energy – It could serve as a low-carbon power source, thereby reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
• Absence of chain reaction – In contrast to nuclear fission, fusion does not depend on a self-sustaining chain reaction.
• Inherent safety – It ceases automatically if the extreme conditions necessary for its maintenance are disrupted.
• Potential energy security – Commercially viable fusion could offer a long-term electricity supply and decrease dependence on imported fuels.
• Technological advancement – It fosters expertise in plasma physics, superconducting magnets, advanced materials, and engineering.

Reference

Business Line | India’s Spherical Tokamak