Achieving Thermonuclear Fusion in a Stabilized Z Pinch and Integration into a Reactor Concept
Year: 2026
Type: conference-paper
Abstract: Many fusion energy approaches rely on large external magnetic field coils to stabilize plasma, leading to low plasma beta - the ratio of plasma pressure to magnetic pressure. In contrast, the Z pinch naturally operates at unity beta without external coils: an axial plasma current generates the confining magnetic field that balances the radial pressure gradient. Increasing the current compresses the plasma adiabatically, raising density and temperature. Historically, Z pinches have been limited by magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) instabilities that degrade confinement. The sheared-flow-stabilized (SFS) Z pinch mitigates these instabilities using axial plasma flows and has demonstrated confinement at fusion-relevant conditions without magnetic field coils, enabling a compact fusion device. [1] This presentation summarizes experimental results from multiple devices at the University of Washington [2] and Zap Energy [3], showing stable, high-performance plasmas and sustained fusion reactions. Neutron energy measurements indicate a thermonuclear fusion process, with reaction rates consistent with adiabatic compression scaling. [4] These experimental results are supported by high-fidelity numerical simulations [5] that inform interpretation, guide experimental design, and explore scaling toward improved plasma conditions and ultimately a high-gain fusion energy system. [6] Finally, we present an integrated technology demonstrator [7] that combines SFS Z-pinch confinement with liquid-metal electrodes and repetitive operation, illustrating a credible reactor pathway for fusion power.
Authors: U. Shumlak, C.S. Adams, J.T. Banasek, J. Barhydt, A. Cheung, E.L. Claveau, D.W. Crews, I.A.M. Datta, C. Dion, Z. Draper, E.G. Forbes, R.P. Golingo, C. Goyon, D.P. Higginson, A. Hossack, A. Johansen, A.A. Khairi, B. Kelleher, R. Kube, B. Levitt, C. Liekhus-Schmaltz, H.S. McLean, E.T. Meier, J. Mitrani, K.D. Morgan, V. Nalajala, B.A. Nelson, M. Quinley, S. Richardson, C. Roark, R.A. Ryan, J. Smythe, A. Stepanov, P. Stoltz, D.A. Sutherland, A. Taylor, M. Thompson, P. Tsai, K.K. Tummel, T.R. Weber, G.A. Wurden, A.E. Youmans, W.C. Young, Y. Zhang
Language: English
Subfield: Nuclear and High Energy Physics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W7204533085