News
Soundbite: MPEX: Power, particles and plasma
In the last episode of The Sound of Science, you heard about how scientists are working to harness the power of the sun on earth with fusion. But this doesn't come without hurdles.
Proto-MPEX wraps up research operations, opens new scientific questions
The prototype of the Material Plasma Exposure eXperiment (Proto-MPEX) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory officially wrapped up its research operations in late April, after almost seven years of service.
Strong bonds: MPEX magnet system benefits from US ITER expertise
“Having the US ITER magnet experts here at ORNL allowed them to share their expertise, which we integrated into the design of the MPEX magnet system,” said MPEX Project Director Phil Ferguson.
DOE Under Secretary for Science Dabbar celebrates progress on MPEX fusion materials device
The project recently completed an independent project review in advance of DOE authorization to begin procurement and fabrication of major long-lead items for the device.
MPEX promises a versatile tool for fusion reactor materials development
Temperatures hotter than the center of the sun. Magnetic fields hundreds of thousands of times stronger than the earth’s. Neutrons energetic enough to change the structure of a material entirely.
Fusion—Heating the core
In a recent study, researchers at ORNL performed experiments in a prototype fusion reactor materials testing facility to develop a method that uses microwaves to raise the plasma’s temperature closer to the extreme values reached in a fusion energy reactor’s exhaust system.
Materials research brings fusion power closer to reality
The current facility, dubbed proto-MPEX, is designed to test materials using a powerful plasma source—but only in brief bursts.