Explore how our groundbreaking research in fusion energy, plasmas, and magnets accelerates understanding and generates new technologies.
A shared goal unifies much of the research happening at the PSFC: make fusion energy a reality. From taming plasmas to engineering electromagnets and developing diagnostics, our researchers and students do some of the coolest science on the planet.
Recent advances in technology have put plasma fusion within reach, and the PSFC has originated some significant breakthroughs.
Now, we’re refining revolutionary superconducting electromagnets, designing more efficient plasma heating systems, devising “blankets” to capture fusion energy, and more.
Plasma, the fourth state of matter, is extremely hot and unstable, which makes it tough (and fun) to study. We decipher the behavior of plasmas by generating them in labs, and deepen understanding with the help of data simulations, AI, and quantum computing.
What happens when a superheated plasma touches whatever’s containing it? We search for the answer using particle accelerators to blast different materials with extremely energetic particles. Results reveal how to make durable fusion devices.
Matter behaves differently when it’s under extreme pressure—understanding that behavior helps reveal the secrets of star formation, solar events, and also fusion. Our researchers are especially interested in how plasma and magnetic fields react during a type of fusion called “inertial confinement.”
Some people are surprised to learn that plasma research is more than just physics and fusion—among other things, it’s brought us technologies used to detect pollution, emissions, and explosives.
Now, a unique PSFC-originated millimeter wave source is being explored for use in deep geothermal power generation.
