Copper endures 2,595°F in US nuclear fusion reactor material test, defies earlier models

[Marlin]

Copper endures 2,595°F in US nuclear fusion reactor material test, defies earlier models

https://interestingengineering.com/energy/copper-endures-high-temperature

[Core Content]

Copper beats 2,595°F to defy earlier models in US fusion reactor test

Researchers at the SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory observed copper melting gradually under extreme heat, contradicting previous computer models that predicted an instantaneous collapse. By using high-speed electron imaging to track atomic movements, the team identified that dynamic pressure allows the material to retain structural order past its theoretical superheating limit. These findings will improve predictive modeling for materials used in fusion reactor components exposed to intense thermal spikes.

SLAC researchers discover copper melts gradually past its superheating limit rather than collapsing instantly.

Scientists have discovered that copper melts gradually rather than collapsing all at once under extreme heat. The finding challenges earlier computer models that predict how nuclear fusion reactor materials handle extreme thermal loads. The study was published in Nature Communications.

It was led by researchers at the Department of Energy's SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, working alongside teams from several European universities. Standard materials testing often uses a "cook and look" method. Researchers blast a sample with extreme heat and inspect the melted residue after it cools.

Read the full article at Interesting Engineering:
https://interestingengineering.com/energy/copper-endures-high-temperature