Fusion
Nuclear fusion is the opposite of nuclear fission. The principle of fusion is that the cores of several atoms melt together into a new element. Fusion potentially has big advantages. A chain reaction is impossible and no long-living radioactive waste substances arise. Fusion is therefore considered as the energy option for the future.
Fusion is only possible under extreme conditions of density and temperature that can be compared to the hottest part of a star. Expertise and good testing facilities such as Hot Cell laboratories are needed to simulate this on earth. Research on materials in PALLAS will be essential for future reactors.
Much is expected of the development of a prototype of a viable fusion reactor in Cadarache, France (ITER). This is an initiative of the European Union, Japan, South-Korea, China, India , the United States and the Russian Federation. The Netherlands is also involved in the construction of the first experimental fusion reactor in the world that will be built in the south of France. NRG is playing a prominent part in this project with expertise on materials. The research & development and testing of reactor components in the High Flux Reactor are essential for the success of this unique project. In PALLAS this work will be further developed.
PALLAS provides the Netherlands access to the international fusion project ITER.