In a significant advancement for fusion energy, Russian scientists have developed a groundbreaking technology for producing materials essential for thermonuclear reactors. Utilizing 3D printing, researchers at the National University of Science & Technology NITU MISiS and the DV Efremov Institute of Electrophysical Apparatus have engineered a composite of copper and tungsten, addressing one of the most pressing challenges in fusion power plant development.
On January 30, 2025, the team unveiled their hybrid methodology, combining additive manufacturing with traditional techniques to create a bimetallic composite. This innovation promises to enhance the durability and performance of components that face extreme conditions, including high temperatures and exposure to hydrogen isotopes.
Stanislav Chernysheikhin, head of the laboratory for catalysis and processing of hydrocarbons at NITU MISiS, emphasized the practical implications of this research. He noted that selective laser melting, a popular method in metal additive production, allows for the synthesis of complex parts with high precision. The challenge of processing tungsten, known for its high melting point and brittleness, has been addressed through this new approach.
The resulting composite exhibits a relative density of 96.7%, significantly improving its mechanical properties. Chernysheikhin explained that the method allows for the creation of parts with tailored geometric structures, enhancing their adaptability for specific applications. Future plans include producing mock-ups of plasma-facing components to undergo rigorous testing that simulates operational conditions in thermonuclear plants.
Yuri Gasparyan, acting head of the Department of Plasma Physics at the National Research Nuclear University MEPhI, highlighted the critical need for reliable cladding materials in fusion reactors. The new composite material developed by the NITU MISiS team could potentially combine the advantages of tungsten and copper, addressing issues related to material integrity under extreme conditions.
While this technology marks a significant step forward, experts caution that practical applications in fusion energy may still be decades away. Alexei Belogoryev, head of the expert analytical department for the fuel and energy complex at the Institute of Energy Strategy, noted that the economic viability of fusion energy remains uncertain and requires further development.
The implications of this research extend beyond energy production, as advancements in fusion technology could play a crucial role in future space exploration, making it an area of global interest.