To ensure the safe and stable operation of thermonuclear energy systems, it is essential to closely monitor the parameters of superheated plasma fuel. Key characteristics such as temperature and density have a direct impact on the ability to sustain nuclear fusion reactions. Modern diagnostic systems are used to measure these extreme conditions, performing observation and control functions within fusion facilities.

Strengthening National Diagnostic Capabilities

A new report, prepared with support from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), highlights the need to increase investment in the development of national diagnostic technologies for fusion energy. Advancing these tools is seen as a crucial step in providing the DOE and Congress with the data necessary to accelerate the development of commercial fusion power plants.

The document was compiled following the 2024 DOE Innovation in Measurement Seminar, organized as part of the Fusion Energy Sciences (FES) program of the Office of Science. The seminar brought together experts from universities, private companies, and national laboratories, including the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL). The main objective was to identify which diagnostic and measurement technologies are most important for maintaining U.S. leadership in fusion energy and plasma physics. The seminar also contributed to achieving the goals of the DOE Fusion Energy Science and Technology Roadmap, which outlines actions and milestones through the mid-2030s to build a competitive fusion industry in the country.

Seven Priority Areas in Plasma Physics

Seventy researchers participated in preparing the report, examining seven key topics funded by the DOE FES program:

• Low-temperature plasma
• High energy density plasma
• Plasma-material interactions
• Burning plasma with magnetic confinement (MCF)
• Burning plasma with inertial confinement (ICF)
• Experimental fusion facilities based on MCF
• Fusion power plants based on ICF

These areas encompass both fundamental plasma research and the design of future fusion power plants.

Technological Development: Sensors, Fast Measurements, and Artificial Intelligence

Experts identified several ways to improve the effectiveness of plasma parameter measurements. Among the priorities are the development of diagnostic systems capable of operating under the intense radiation expected in future fusion power plants. There is also a recognized need for methods that can capture extremely rapid processes occurring during inertial confinement fusion experiments.

The report emphasizes the role of artificial intelligence in optimizing the design of modern measurement systems. Additionally, it highlights the importance of building a talent pipeline to attract and train new diagnostic specialists. These measures not only support the advancement of fusion energy but also expand the plasma technology ecosystem, contributing to the country's economic competitiveness.

Key Recommendations for Accelerating Innovation

The report offers the following key recommendations:

• Accelerate the development of measurement technologies through validation of computational codes, artificial intelligence tools, machine learning, and digital twins.
• Establish a national innovation network for measurement, similar to LaserNetUS, possibly under the name CalibrationNetUS.
• Create national teams to effectively implement new measurement concepts into operational diagnostic systems.
• Adopt a systematic approach to calibrating diagnostic instruments.
• Facilitate the transfer of knowledge and experience from government institutions to private fusion companies.
• Expand workforce training programs to meet the needs of experimental fusion facilities.
• Plan for remote management and maintenance of diagnostic instruments for future fusion sites.

The full report and its executive summary are available online.