The prospect for fusion energy in the 21st century

Magnetic fusion has been pursued as a long range energy option since the 1950s. Experimental devices have now reached the point where substantial neutron energy (10 MW) can be produced for times (10 seconds) limited only by heating and energy supply limitations for the resistive magnets. It is now possible to design an engineering test reactor and to have it in operation early in the next century. Environmental impact studies detailing the potential for reduced risk associated with fusion reactors have been published. Fusion reactors will need to deal with activated structures and with the potential release of tritium, but inventories and public exposure risks can be several orders of magnitude less than possible with fission reactors. A recent report of the National Research Council has recommended that the funding for fusion programs be increased, and that the US join in an international program aimed at providing the insurance of a viable fusion option for the 21st century