Hannover's expertise boosts groundbreaking fusion project

Hannover's expertise boosts groundbreaking fusion project
by Robert Schreiber
Berlin, Germany (SPX) Apr 17, 2024

The PriFUSIO project, led by the Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology (ILT) and supported by an 18 million euro grant from the Federal Ministry of Education and Research, is setting a new course for the development of climate-neutral fusion power plants. The project brings together a diverse consortium including startups, mid-sized enterprises, and large corporations along with specialized institutions such as the Laser Zentrum Hannover (LZH) and the Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Optics and Precision Engineering (IOF).

The initiative aims to harness laser technology to advance inertial confinement fusion, a promising approach for sustainable energy production. The project's focus includes developing high-performance laser sources and optics, as well as automated systems for fuel supply and efficient waste heat management, all essential for the potential commercial application of fusion energy.

Contributions from the Hannover region are significant, with LASEROPTIK GmbH and the LZH providing their expertise in the crucial area of optical coatings. These coatings are designed to withstand high laser energies, which is pivotal for maintaining the integrity and functionality of laser systems used in fusion processes.

Dr. Dietmar Kracht, CEO of LZH, highlighted the importance of their role: "The optics are the weakest link in the chain of such powerful lasers," he explained. "We are extremely pleased to contribute our expertise in the field of damage threshold measurements to the project in order to qualify optics for even higher powers."

Innovations at LZH include new methods for measuring the laser-induced damage threshold (LIDT), which is vital for understanding and improving the resistance of optical materials. This research not only aims to extend the life and performance of these materials but also involves developing mobile measurement setups that can be used across different project sites, integrating artificial intelligence for enhanced accuracy.

On another front, LASEROPTIK GmbH is undertaking the development of new coating technologies that increase the resistance of optics to laser damage, thereby extending their operational lifespan. "It is a special honor to be able to work on this outstanding project. In view of the dedicated project goals, this is a very serious commitment that we want to take on," said Dr. Wolfgang Ebert, CEO of LASEROPTIK GmbH.

This collaboration underscores the collective effort of various German technology leaders, including Schott AG, Heraeus Group, and TRUMPF Laser AG, along with innovative startups like Focused Energy GmbH and Marvel Fusion GmbH. The project is part of the ambitious "Fusion 2040 - Research on the way to the fusion power plant" program, which aims to position Germany at the forefront of fusion energy development.