Fuse and Los Alamos National Laboratory Join Forces to Enhance Fusion Energy Technologies
Fuse and Los Alamos National Laboratory Join Forces
In a significant move within the realm of fusion energy, Fuse, a prominent fusion technology company based in the U.S., has officially entered into a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) with Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL). This partnership aims to foster advancements in pulsed power technologies that are essential for both fusion energy and the national security framework of the United States.
The collaboration seeks not only to expedite the development of technologies pertinent to the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) but also to pave the way for the commercialization of fusion energy. As part of this strategic agreement, LANL will conduct evaluations of Fuse's existing and forthcoming hardware designs. Furthermore, both organizations will collaborate in developing target designs that will undergo rigorous testing by experts in plasma, radiation, and energy outputs from both sides.
LANL brings to the table an impressive legacy of over 80 years in high-energy density physics, plasma theory, computational modeling, and materials science. This deep well of expertise complements Fuse's cutting-edge next-generation pulsed power systems and its innovative z-pinch technologies. According to Pat Fitch, the Deputy Laboratory Director for Science, Technology, and Engineering at LANL, this partnership is pivotal for innovation as it fosters a collaborative environment between the private sector and national laboratory, ultimately benefitting the public good.
Fuse has made significant strides with its impedance-matched Marx generators (IMG) and high-energy dense plasma focus (DPF) machines, laying the groundwork for large-scale fusion machines. The operational hardware currently in place is crucial for developing z-pinch targets, tackling plasma instabilities, and demonstrating fusion's potential as a commercial energy source.
James C. Owen, the President of Fuse Federal, emphasized the importance of this partnership in bridging commercial fusion technology development with scientific expertise derived from LANL. He expressed optimism that the collaboration would greatly benefit national security and fulfill the interests of both public and private sectors.
Additionally, Lisa Gordon-Hagerty, a member of the Fuse Board of Directors and former Under Secretary for Nuclear Security and NNSA Administrator, highlighted that Fuse is providing essential capabilities for full-spectrum radiation testing that is integral for nuclear and conventional delivery platforms. The relationship with LANL is set to augment the formidable capabilities that support the U.S. strategic deterrent.
The sentiment was echoed by JC Btaiche, Founder and CEO of Fuse, who passionately stated that "nuclear fusion is the holy grail of energy; and energy security is national security." He reinforced the unique positioning of Fuse in delivering technologies that bolster both nuclear security and energy independence as they navigate the path toward commercial fusion power.
In summary, the partnership between Fuse and Los Alamos National Laboratory marks a pivotal moment in the pursuit of advanced fusion technologies. By combining their collective expertise and resources, both entities are set to tackle the intricacies of fusion energy development and enhance national security capabilities, promising a future where clean and abundant energy is a reality.