Manmade sun: magnetic fusion technology

Energy release from the fusion of deuterium and tritium nuclei continues to promise an environmentally attractive energy source. Fusion physics is actively studied in many countries on large experimental facilities, notably the tokamak, reverse pinch, and mirror machines. Several aspects of fusion energy are under study at Sandia. These include the interaction of plasma with material surfaces, research on the behavior of tritium in solids, and the developmental of special materials. Research emphasis is on questions about materials and processes in high-heat-flux areas of the reactor. The feasibility of this technology is discussed