Power from fusion

A brief explanation is given of the fusion process between two light nuclei (deuterium and tritium) with the release of nuclear energy which can be exploited to produce power. The behaviour of plasmas, the criterion for attaining fusion, the confinement systems etc. are explained. Magnetic confinement of plasmas - specially the toroidal systems and the magnetic mirror, are described. Plasma instability is discussed. The advances made in fusion research in various laboratories with the use of lasers to trigger fusion reactions are described in detail. A comparative study has been made of the various lasers available and their efficiencies. Conceptual design of a laser fusion reactor is given. The implosion technique is also discussed. Future developments are indicated. (A.K.)