Star struck (fusion technology)
Article Type: Abstracts From: Strategic Direction, Volume 25, Issue 6
Fahey J.Forbes, 24 November 2008, Vol. 182 No. 11, Start page: 114, No. of pages: 3
Purpose – spotlights three organizations that are racing to be the first to achieve fusion. Design/methodology/approach – draws attention to how scientists around the world are about to start work on ITER – a $15 billion, aircraft-carrier size reactor, being built in France, that they hope will be able to harness the energy that powers the sun and stars. Outlines how a number of venture capitalists and physicians, in North America, think that they can do the same thing, only cheaper and with a far simpler reactor. Highlights how another company, Tri Alpha, has also joined the race and is being funded by Microsoft cofounder, Paul Allen. Records how so far scientists have failed to make fusion a reality after 50 years of trying; suggests that while progress has been slow, it has been steady; quoting scientific opinion, identifies some of the major obstacles to fusion and outlines the technology being deployed by ITER, and their competitors, to make fusion a reality. Originality/value –identifies the three major competitors involved in the race for fusion.ISSN: 0015-6914Reference: 38AC314
Keywords: Energy industry, Fusion, Innovation, Research and development
