A New Record for Sustainable Fusion Energy
Introduction
Amid global energy challenges and climate change, nuclear fusion remains one of the most exciting areas of scientific research, promising a clean, safe, and practically unlimited source of energy. Recently, the French WEST Tokamak achieved an extraordinary feat by setting a new record for plasma continuity, bringing humanity one step closer to realizing the long-standing dream of large-scale nuclear fusion energy production.
What is WEST Tokamak and why is it special?
WEST stands for W Environment in Steady-state Tokamak, an evolution of the Tore Supra reactor that began operation in the late 1980s. What distinguishes WEST is its use of superconducting magnets and an internal tungsten material, a material with a high capacity to withstand extreme temperatures without absorbing fusion fuel. The goal of these modifications is to simulate the conditions expected in future large-scale reactors like ITER, enabling long-term operation and testing of advanced technical solutions.
Historic Achievement
On February 12, 2025, WEST managed to maintain a steady state of plasma for 1,337 seconds, equivalent to approximately 22 minutes and 17 seconds, at temperatures exceeding 50 million degrees Celsius, nearly three times hotter than the core of the Sun.
This achievement surpassed the previous record set in China of 1,066 seconds (approximately 17 minutes and 46 seconds), representing a 25% increase.
Why is this achievement significant?
Maintaining plasma for long periods is critical for the development of commercial fusion reactors. Every additional second of plasma stability provides scientists with valuable data on how to manage the enormous heat and control the internal conditions of the reactor. Using tungsten, WEST tests the resistance of materials and thermal systems in an environment very close to the reality of future commercial reactors.
Comparison with other reactors
Tore Supra (formerly France): approximately 6.5 minutes.
EAST (China): approximately 17 minutes and 46 seconds.
WEST (France): Approximately 22 minutes and 17 seconds — the current world record.
Scientific and practical benefits
Supporting the ITER project: WEST serves as a testbed for systems that will be used in the largest fusion reactor under construction.
Materials improvement: Studying the performance of tungsten under extreme operating conditions.
International cooperation: Strengthening Europe's position as a global research center in fusion energy.
Challenges ahead
Despite this achievement, significant challenges remain, such as:
Maintaining the plasma for longer periods with greater efficiency.
Reducing the energy consumption required to start and operate the reactor.
Ensuring the long-term stability of materials.
Conclusion
The WEST tokamak represents a significant scientific advance in the global race to clean energy. With continued research efforts, we may be closer than we imagine to the day when nuclear fusion plants become part of the global electricity grid, providing safe, clean, and sustainable energy for future generations.
