Workflow
从“跟跑者”到“造风者”,聚变人的破局之战

Core Viewpoint - Controlled nuclear fusion is emerging as a key solution for global energy transition, with significant advancements reported in China's fusion research, particularly with the "玄龙-50U" device achieving major breakthroughs in plasma temperature and magnetic field strength [1][7][15]. Group 1: Achievements in Fusion Research - The "中国环流三号" (HL-3) has achieved a breakthrough in ion and electron temperature, reaching "双亿度" (double hundred million degrees) [1]. - The "东方超环" (EAST) has set a world record with "亿度千秒" (hundred million degrees for a thousand seconds) operation [1]. - The "玄龙-50U" has become the first spherical tokamak to achieve hydrogen-boron million ampere discharge and has set a world record for a magnetic field of over 1.2T [1][7]. Group 2: Innovative Development Strategies - The development of the "玄龙-50" faced challenges due to the need for rapid construction and verification, leading to a shift from technology following to original innovation [5][6]. - A "需求翻译机制" (demand translation mechanism) was established to convert abstract physical theories into executable engineering plans, enhancing the team's ability to achieve high-value goals with minimal costs [6][9]. - The team adopted a modular replaceable architecture for rapid upgrades, completing installations and tests in just 2.5 months, significantly faster than the international standard of 1-2 years [9][10]. Group 3: Future Goals and Challenges - The short-term goal for the "玄龙-50U" is to achieve hydrogen-boron fusion reactions, which requires overcoming challenges in heating efficiency and plasma control [10][15]. - The team aims to achieve commercial viability for fusion energy by 2027-2030, with potential earlier breakthroughs in hydrogen-boron fusion [15]. - Continuous innovation and collaboration are essential for addressing the technical challenges and achieving higher plasma temperatures and fusion parameters [10][15]. Group 4: Team Development and Experience Transfer - The transition from fission to fusion engineering has been a significant challenge, with the team leveraging experience from traditional nuclear power to enhance their capabilities in fusion research [11][13]. - The team has grown from fewer than 10 members in 2017 to nearly 300, developing a robust talent pipeline and expertise in large device design and construction [14]. - Key principles for team success include self-driven motivation, embracing trial and error, and continuous professional development through expert guidance and training [14].