KSTAR Achieves Record 102-Second Plasma Operation in Breakthrough Fusion Research

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The Korea Superconducting Tokamak Advanced Research (KSTAR) device successfully maintained plasma in high-confinement mode (H-mode) for 102 seconds during an experimental campaign conducted between December 2023 and February 2024. During the same series of experiments, KSTAR also sustained plasma at an ion temperature of 100 million degrees Celsius for 48 seconds, establishing a new record for the facility.

KSTAR and Tokamak Technology

KSTAR is a superconducting tokamak operated by the Korea Institute of Fusion Energy (KFE) in Daejeon, South Korea. A tokamak is a fusion research device that uses powerful magnetic fields to confine and control plasma within a doughnut-shaped chamber, enabling scientists to study nuclear fusion under controlled conditions.

High-Confinement Mode and Extreme Plasma Temperatures

High-confinement mode, commonly known as H-mode, was first observed in tokamak experiments in 1982. This operating regime enhances the retention of heat and particles within the plasma, making it an important feature for achieving efficient fusion reactions.

In magnetic fusion experiments using deuterium-tritium fuel, a plasma temperature of 100 million degrees Celsius is considered a key benchmark. KSTAR’s latest achievement of maintaining this temperature for 48 seconds surpasses its previous record of 30 seconds, which was set in 2021.

Upgraded Tungsten Divertors Improve Heat Control

To support long-duration plasma operations, KSTAR underwent significant upgrades in 2023, including the installation of tungsten divertors. Divertors are critical components that remove excess heat, impurities, and exhaust particles from the plasma edge.

Tungsten is widely used in fusion reactors because of its exceptional heat resistance, with a melting point of approximately 3,422°C. During the recent experiments, the tungsten divertors experienced only a 25% rise in surface temperature under comparable heat loads, demonstrating improved performance over the previous carbon-based divertor system.

Long-Term Fusion Research Goals

KSTAR aims to eventually sustain high-performance plasma for 300 seconds, a major objective in advancing fusion energy technology. The recent achievements of 102 seconds in H-mode operation and 48 seconds at 100 million degrees Celsius represent important progress toward realizing stable, long-duration fusion reactions.

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