Nuclear fusion has the potential to provide an unlimited energy source for the current millennium.
Nuclei of deuterium fuse together in a high-temperature plasma and produce energy. The fuels required, deuterium and lithium, are available in practically unlimited quantities and, in contrast to nuclear fission fuels, present virtually no long-term radiation risk.

The plasma densities and temperatures required are achieved by confinement in a magnetic field. Worldwide there are a large number of experimental plants where the feasibility of nuclear fusion in a magnetic field has already been demonstrated. With the ITER (International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor), the EU, USA, Japan and Russia are working in partnership to achieve a long-burning plasma (> 1000 seconds). Technical implementation is leading to many new challenges, including selection of materials.

PLANSEE develops and produces high heat-flux components for first wall, limiter and diverter modules.

Production of Nuclear Fuels

Nuclear fuels are sintered in continuous furnaces with heating systems made of molybdenum or tungsten. Because of the high sintering temperature of 3,090°F, the sintering boats and plates are made of refractory metals.