As the technological race to develop clean energy sources ahead of the 2030 net-zero emissions target heats up, Chinese scientists have developed a nuclear fusion reactor as the quest for clean energy technology takes centre stage globally. This Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak- EAST project has received international recognition for its ability to produce five times more energy than the sun. The reactor nicknamed, ‘the artificial sun imitates the sun’s energy generation process through nuclear fusion reactions.
How does this work?
Imagine mixing butter and sugar to form cream frosting; the pressure from the mixing process ensures the tiny air pockets are expelled, forming a smooth and creamy frosting that is lighter in mass. Likewise, when two hydrogen atoms collide in the presence of an external force (in this case, heat and pressure), they form a helium atom which is a much lighter mass. The helium formed due to this process contains enormous amounts of clean energy that can be harnessed for use.
What are the potential benefits?
Hydrogen atoms naturally occur within energy sources such as water, the sun and wind. The Chinese scientists harness hydrogen atoms from deuterium (heavy hydrogen), which is found in oceans. If successfully deployed, the technology will provide a steady clean, renewable energy source. In addition, unlike fossil fuels, the technology emits zero Green House Gases (GHG). As one of the worlds largest coal consumers, this technology will offer China the chance to significantly reduce its GHG emissions, cutting back on its use of coal for electricity generation.
Is China the only nation in on this?
While China has made significant progress on the technology with several test runs, it is not the only country involved in its development. The International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) is a multinational billion-dollar project which aims to develop, finance and construct a giant cylindrical fusion device called a ‘Tokamak’. Just like the EAST project, the ITER project seeks to harness a vast amount of clean and renewable energy for use. The ITER project is jointly financed and managed by the European Union, India, Japan, China, Russia, South Korea, and the United States. The Tokamak is currently under construction in Southern France.