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ITER, an evolved research project

For the past half-century, scientists have been working to develop an alternative source of energy to nuclear fission: Fusion, the way forward for the ITER project (ITER = International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor).

What is nuclear fusion ?

The sun's light and heat are produced through the fusion of hydrogen atoms. Would it not be possible to recreate the same fusion conditions on earth in order to harness energy ? In order to reproduce this phenomenon, scientists use what are known as tokamac reactors. Controlled fusion is obtained using deuterium and tritium atoms.


energy for sustainable development

Nuclear fusion will provide us with an almost unlimited supply of energy which, like energy generated by fission reactors, would not emit greenhouse gases.
 
Nuclear fusion would thus provide a solution to growing energy needs, to the expected doubling of the population by 2050, and to pollution problems.

ITER a project of international stature

The aim of the ITER project (ITER = International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor) is to build an experimental fusion reactor controlled by means of magnetic confinement. The purpose of this project is to demonstrate the scientific feasibility of a generating reactor.
 

Partners in this project are the European Union, Japan, the United States, Russia, China and South Korea.


ITER in France

For a very long time, France has been deeply involved in fusion research. The French Atomic Energy Commission (CEA) based at Cadarache in the Bouches-du-Rhône department is equipped with extensive scientific and technological fusion research facilities.
 

In June of 2005, the Cadarache site nominated as the EU candidate was chosen to host the ITER project, thus making France the European leader in fusion research.