ITER Cooperation

The international ITER experimental reactor is to show that it is physically and technically possible to gain energy from nuclear fusion. IPP is contributing to the preparation of the device.

Fusion reactor model of ITER with exposed inner components. — Schematic view of the of the ITER international experimental reactor

© ITER Organisation

Schematic view of the of the ITER international experimental reactor

© ITER Organisation

With ITER (Latin for “the way”), the world’s principal fusion programmes – representing Europe, Japan, the USA, the Russian Federation, as well as China, South Korea and India – are collaboratively constructing the first experimental reactor. ITER is designed to demonstrate that it is both physically and technically possible to harness energy through nuclear fusion. For the first time, it will generate a sustained, energy-yielding plasma that remains ignited for a prolonged period.

ITER is expected to deliver a fusion power output of 500 megawatts – ten times the energy utilised for heating the plasma. Moreover, it will serve as a platform for developing and testing essential technical functions of a fusion power plant. These functions include superconducting magnets, tritium technology, the removal of produced heat energy, and the development of remotely replaceable components. In parallel, safety and environmental issues are being addressed.

In recent years, significant progress has been made in the construction of ITER. Due to technical challenges associated with many pioneering components, as well as delays resulting from the pandemic, the ITER Organisation presented a revised project baseline (Baseline 2024) in July 2024.

This new baseline consolidates the assembly procedures and aims to expedite the commencement of research operations while simultaneously reducing technical and regulatory risks. The start of research operations with deuterium–deuterium experiments is scheduled for 2034, followed by deuterium–tritium experiments in 2039.

The IPP and ITER

Through the research programme of its fusion facility ASDEX Upgrade, the Max Planck Institute for Plasma Physics (IPP) contributes to the preparation and support of ITER operations.

Due to the change in the planned wall material for ITER – from beryllium to tungsten, in line with the new Baseline 2024 – the significance of ASDEX Upgrade in preparing for ITER operations has increased. ASDEX Upgrade has been equipped with a full tungsten wall since 2007.

Within the IPP area of ITER Technology & Diagnostics, the institute’s technological development contributions to ITER are established: these include involvement in the development of neutral beam heating and the creation of various diagnostics for ITER.

Researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Plasma Physics are integral members of the international team responsible for developing the ITER plasma control system.

In the words of a key organisational figure, “Our contributions to ITER are a testament to our commitment to success and excellence in cutting-edge research.”