Innovation Winter 2024.25

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common method of pursuing fusion involves magnetic heating and confinement of the hydrogen isotopes, which is the process at the multi-billion-dollar International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) project in France. However, the project has been challenged by addressing safety, since microscopic imprecisions in the machine could immediately lead to leakage of precious – and hazardous – tritium. General Fusion’s solution is to first surround its hydrogen isotopes with a liquid lithium buffer before reaching the compression element. “When fusion happens, all the energy that is created is carried away by the neutrons from the reaction. That can be very damaging to your machine,” said Donaldson. “But we are surrounding our plasma with a wall of liquid metal that protects the rest of the machine, and we’re one of the only approaches – if not the only approach – that addresses that problem of damage.” Rebreeding tritium a key advantage Another significant benefit of General Fusion’s solution is that its process naturally creates more tritium as a byproduct. Beyond a regular liquid buffer, lithium atoms surrounding the plasma absorb neutrons produced from

Fusion is one of the greatest challenges of our time.”

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- Darren Ross, P.Eng., mechanical engineer, General Fusion

the deuterium-tritium reaction, causing the lithium to split into helium-4 and tritium. This method of rebreeding has been a cornerstone of General Fusion’s approach for years and a significant advantage of their technology. Other reactors, such as ITER’s, are attempting similar methods of capturing byproduct neutrons to create tritium, including a “lithium blanket” that will line the inside cavity of the reactor. The company believes that the approach of using an initial liquid buffer will make the process safer and increase the efficacy of the rebreeding. "We are unique in that we are the only approach out there

MMCD Accepted, BC MoTI Recognized, AREMA Approved

Advanced Drainage

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Innovation Winter 2024/25

25