The discussion centers on the mechanisms of nuclear fusion for electricity generation, particularly comparing it to fission reactors that boil water to move turbines. Participants explore how fusion could produce heat and whether it could be harnessed similarly, as well as alternative methods for energy conversion from fusion processes.
Participants express a mix of hope and skepticism regarding the future of nuclear fusion technology, particularly in relation to the ITER project. There is no consensus on the viability of fusion as a commercially successful energy source, and multiple views on the methods of energy conversion from fusion remain present.
Participants highlight the uncertainty surrounding the technological feasibility of fusion energy and its potential commercial applications, as well as the educational pathways available in the absence of nuclear engineering programs in some regions.
Astronuc said:If fusion is strictly used to produce thermal energy, which after all is kinetic energy of matter, then yes a working fluid could be used to drive a turbine which would turn a generator to produce electricity.
Otherwise, one would employ either expansion of the plasma against the confining magnetic field, or use some direct conversion process in which the nuclei and electrons are separated in a magnetic field and basically sent to separate collectors. The electrons then form an electric (DC) current which is passed through the load.
One would have to specialize in plasma physics and nuclear engineering, or perhaps electrical engineering.AlexES16 said:Astronuc thanks for the answer bro, do you know what career is more close to study this questions if there is no nuclear engineering in my country?. Be the way i hope ITER to be a success, altough some scientist say its technologically impossible and non-viable.
Astronuc said:One would have to specialize in plasma physics and nuclear engineering, or perhaps electrical engineering.
I would like to see ITER be successful, but 1) I don't know if they will be at this point, and 2) it's not clear to me that even if they are successful that that will lead to a commercially viable system.