New Developments in Nuclear Fusion Research

Nuclear fusion is a process in which two nuclei join, forming a larger nucleus and releasing or absorbing energy. With some exceptions, nuclei lighter than iron release energy when they fuse, while heavier nuclei absorb energy; this is because iron has the largest binding energy. Nuclear fusion of light elements is the energy source which causes stars to shine and hydrogen bombs to explode. Nuclear fusion of heavy elements is part of the process that triggers supernovae. Nuclear fusion as an energy source has several advantages: It is vast, new source of energy; Fuels are plentiful; Inherently safe since any malfunction results in a rapid shutdown; No atmospheric pollution leading to acid rain or "greenhouse" effect; Radioactivity of the reactor structure, caused by the neutrons, decays rapidly and can be minimised by careful selection of low-activation materials. Provision for geological time-span disposal is not needed. This book brings together leading research in this field which will play a major role in the 21st century.