Speaker: Prof. Uri Shumlak, University of Washington-Seattle and ZAP Energy
Abstract: Many confinement configurations use large magnetic field coils to stabilize plasma, resulting in lower plasma beta – a measure of confinement efficiency defined as the ratio of plasma pressure to magnetic pressure. In contrast, the Z pinch achieves an ideal unity beta without the need for magnetic field coils. An axial plasma current generates the confining magnetic field, which balances the radial plasma pressure gradient. Increasing this current compresses the plasma adiabatically, raising its density and temperature. Despite its potential, the Z pinch is prone to MHD instabilities that destroy confinement. The sheared-flow-stabilized (SFS) Z pinch mitigates these instabilities using axial flows and has shown the ability to confine plasma at fusion conditions without magnetic field coils, promising a more compact fusion device. This presentation will discuss experimental results from the FuZE (Fusion Z-pinch Experiment) device, demonstrating high-performance plasmas and sustained fusion reactions. Neutron energy measurements indicate a thermonuclear fusion process, with reaction rates consistent with adiabatic compression scaling. High-fidelity numerical simulations suggest that sheared-flow stabilization remains effective at reactor-grade plasma conditions. Additionally, scaling studies show the potential of the SFS Z pinch as a high-gain fusion energy source. Finally, we will present an integrated reactor technology demonstrator combining key subsystems including Z-pinch plasma confinement, liquid metal electrodes, and repetitive operation, highlighting its viability as a carbon-free terrestrial power source.