Stirling Prize-winning architect Amanda Levete has unveiled plans for a protype magnetic fusion power plant, Energy Source & Distribution’s Rosie Bensley writes.
In a world first, the nuclear fusion plant is set to be constructed in Oxfordshire in the UK by the end of 2025. The structure, called the Fusion Demonstration Plant, will be built at the Culham campus of the UK Atomic Energy Authority.
ALA’s newly unveiled plans feature a sleek circular reactor with a viewing platform, meeting rooms and an educational space circling the bottom floor.
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The plant will use nuclear fusion technology from Canadian energy company General Fusion to test the viability a carbon-free energy source.
Unlike traditional nuclear power stations, which split atoms in two, the magnetic fusion demonstration plant will combine atoms to generate heat energy. The reactor will also use magnetised target infusion, involving the injection of hydrogen plasma into lead lithium spheres encircled with pistons. Pistons compress this hydrogen until the atoms fuse, forming helium elements. The process creates large amounts of heat, which is then used to power a turbine.
Despite this, the proposed plant is too small to generate power on a commercial scale and will instead be used to prove the technology’s viability. If the technology is a success, it could play a key role in decarbonising the UK’s power gird.
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Levete’s firm ALA says the magnetic fusion pioneering project is a step towards a greener future.
“We have really enjoyed working with General Fusion and their team of scientists on the design of the Fusion Demonstration Plant, and are particularly excited that the first of its kind will be built in the UK,” ALA told Dezeen.
“This is a real statement of confidence in science and technology and its role in building our future. We look forward to continuing our work with General Fusion and UKAEA,” they said.
