Graphene nanoribbon explored as basis for gamma monitoring in fusion machines

[Marlin]

Graphene nanoribbon explored as basis for gamma monitoring in fusion machines

https://www.ans.org/news/2026-07-22/article-8235/graphene-nanoribbon-explored-as-basis-for-gamma-monitoring-in-fusion-machines/

[Core Content]

University of Arizona researchers demonstrated that graphene nanoribbons exhibit measurable changes in electrical current when exposed to gamma radiation. These sensors could be placed inside the first wall of fusion reactors to provide real-time data on radiation-induced material degradation. This technology aims to improve maintenance scheduling by identifying structural damage before component failure occurs.

A tiny ribbon may hold big promise for detecting radiation damage in future tokamaks.

Researchers at the University of Arizona have shown that, when exposed to gamma radiation, graphene nanoribbons exhibit altered current flow from quantum effects while maintaining their atomic framework, suggesting strong potential for use in sensors for monitoring gamma-induced damage to materials and devices in extreme environments, such as fusion machines.

Read the full article at ans.org:
https://www.ans.org/news/2026-07-22/article-8235/graphene-nanoribbon-explored-as-basis-for-gamma-monitoring-in-fusion-machines/