可控核聚变能发展概况及当前中子科学研发进展

Summary of Key Points from the Conference Call Industry Overview - The focus is on controlled nuclear fusion, which utilizes fuel derived from seawater, making it a virtually limitless and low-carbon energy source. The primary byproducts are neutrons and helium, with no carbon emissions and high safety standards. The energy density is extremely high, with a million-kilowatt power station consuming only 150 kilograms of fuel annually [1][7]. Core Insights and Arguments - Research and Development: The global research on controlled nuclear fusion primarily revolves around thermonuclear fusion, which includes inertial confinement, magnetic confinement, and magnetic inertial confinement. Various reactor types, such as tokamaks and stellarators, are actively being explored, with commercialization expected around 2035. The U.S. has released a related technology roadmap [1][6]. - Investment Trends: There has been a significant increase in investment in the nuclear fusion sector, with private capital pouring in. Approximately 60 to 70 private fusion companies globally have attracted over $10 billion in total investment, with $4 to $5 billion expected in 2025 alone. In China, several companies have been established, with state-owned enterprises leading the way, such as the establishment of Jiu Bian Energy with a registered capital of 15 billion yuan [1][6][8]. - Safety and Efficiency: Controlled nuclear fusion is considered a safer alternative to traditional nuclear power plants, as the fusion reaction can be halted at any time, preventing continuous heat generation. The energy density is also highlighted, where a million-kilowatt power station can supply energy to one million households with just 0.5 kilograms of fuel daily [7][8]. - Artificial Intelligence Integration: There is a close relationship between nuclear fusion and artificial intelligence. Fusion can provide the necessary power for AI, while AI can be utilized to control plasma in fusion reactions. NVIDIA's CEO has mentioned using AI for digital simulations of controlled nuclear fusion [9]. Additional Important Content - Neutron Applications: Neutrons have various applications in nuclear technology, including sustaining fission reactions, detecting materials, burning nuclear waste, producing rare isotopes, and cancer treatment. The nuclear technology application industry in China (excluding traditional nuclear energy) is nearing a scale of 1 trillion yuan [10][11]. - Clinical Applications: The Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) is a notable innovation in cancer treatment, utilizing neutrons to precisely target and kill cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue. Clinical trials are ongoing, with facilities established in Shandong University and Anqing, expected to treat around 2,000 patients annually [13][14]. - Market Dynamics: The nuclear fusion industry chain encompasses various industrial sectors, including magnets, power supplies, control systems, diagnostic measurements, materials, and radiation protection. Significant investments have been attracted in these areas, particularly in high-temperature superconductors and diagnostic equipment, which are crucial for the development of the fusion industry chain [19]. - Global Supply Chain: The U.S. has restricted the export of neutron source systems and related software since 2019. However, China has made significant advancements in neutron technology, achieving self-sufficiency in certain areas while still relying on imports for larger proton source accelerators, which are expected to be developed domestically in the coming years [18]. - Future Projections: The widespread expectation for achieving fusion power is around 10 years, with some optimistic estimates suggesting it could be realized by 2030. Current applications of fusion technology are already being explored in fields like oil logging and imaging detection, with significant progress anticipated in the next five years [16][17].