Zap Energy Shear Flow Stabilized Z Pinch Reactor Results and Concept

The sheared-flow stabilized (SFS) Z-pinch concept, developed at University of Washington with LLNL collaborators, is now on a path to commercialization at Zap Energy. Recent experiments corroborate expected thermonuclear fusion reaction rates, as the discharge current is scaled towards compact reactor conditions. The Fusion Z-pinch Experiment (FuZE) employs high power-handling electrodes, flexible gas injection, and independently-switched capacitor bank modules to tailor the discharge current and gas distribution to establish stabilizing sheared flow and pinch current. Experimental campaigns are underway to increase the pinch current, stability duration, and DD fusion neutron production. We’ve recently achieved record pinch currents, > 500 kA, electron temperature > 2 keV, ion temperature > 2.5 keV and neutron yield > 2e8/pulse. These efforts aim to scale the pinch current, plasma density, and plasma temperature to reach scientific breakeven by 2023 in the next generation device FuZE-Q, which is now operational. Scientific and engineering status of both experimental platforms will be discussed.