Project objectives
The SF-Plant project aims to assess the extent to which high-temperature superconductors (HTS) enable the construction of fusion power plants that are more compact and attractive than those using low-temperature superconductors.
The aim is to explore a wide range of parameters and technological solutions, while at the same time identifying candidate barriers and designs for future power plants.
Scientific background
Nuclear fusion relies on the creation and maintenance of a hot plasma, confined by magnetic fields. High-temperature superconductors offer a unique opportunity to intensify these fields, making smaller and potentially more affordable reactors possible.
However, this technology, while promising, raises engineering challenges: extreme forces on structures and management of intense heat.
The SF-Plant project is part of this exploration, combining fundamental research and state-of-the-art simulations to assess the feasibility of such power plants, while contributing to the advancement of scientific knowledge and technological development.
Scientific and technological challenges
Laplace forces
Manage the intense forces on coils induced by high magnetic fields.
Heat flux and cryomagnetic technologies
Reducing heat flux on components exposed to plasma and developing efficient cooling systems for SHTs.
System design
Optimize compact power plant designs using simulation codes.
Advanced modeling
Improving plasma confinement and transport models.
Partners involved
This project is being carried out in collaboration with several laboratories and research centers
CEA
Project leader, responsible for system studies, cryomagnetic design and plasma-wall interactions.
CNRS
Expertise in plasma theory, modeling and studies of materials and plasma interactions.
AMU
Contribution to studies on plasma physics, turbulence and transport.
CentraleSupélec
Techno-economic analysis and optimization of SHT-based electrical systems.
Project challenges
Controlling mechanical stress
Managing high forces on structures.
Thermal management
Maintain optimum performance despite intense heat flows.
Precise modeling
Improve simulation accuracy for optimized designs.
Methodology and approach
01
Initial studies and tools
Development of D0FUS codes and adaptation of SYCOMORE for SHTs, initial tokamak sizing studies.
02
Advanced modeling and integration
Integration of improved models (Laplace forces, heat flows) in SYCOMORE, detailed design analyses including tokamaks and stellarators.
03
Validation and results
Validation of candidate designs, socio-economic analyses and production of final reports, with codes made available to the scientific community.