In light of the recent breakthrough we sit down to discuss the state of fusion as it relates to the materials that makes it possible. From the harsh environments of the reactor the irradiated byproducts they produce materials are in every aspect of the process and drive forward the path to cleaner energy. Later we are joined by Claire Saunders from Helion Energy to discuss her experience working in the industry as a fusion nuclear materials scientist.

References:

First principles review of options for tritium breeder and neutron multiplier materials for breeding blankets in fusion reactors

Challenges for plasma-facing components in nuclear fusion

CHALLENGES IN DEVELOPING MATERIALS FOR FUSION TECHNOLOGY–PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE

Designing Radiation Resistance in Materials for Fusion Energy∗

This episode is sponsored by Materials Today, an Elsevier community dedicated to the creation and sharing of materials science knowledge and experience through their peer-reviewed journals, academic conferences, educational webinars, and more.

Thanks to Kolobyte and Alphabot for letting us use their music in the show!

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Materialism Team: Taylor Sparks (co-creator,co-host), Andrew Falkowski (co-creator,co-host), and Jared Duffy (production, marketing, and editing).

The short clip from Austin Powers falls under fair use:

Keywords: Fusion Materials Nuclear Energy Hydrogen Sun Lawrence Livermore Labs Clean Energy