New Study Begun on Limits to Magnetic Field Effect

LPP has begun a new theoretical and simulation study aimed at finding the lowest magnetic field strengths that make the magnetic field effect useful for focus fusion.

Previous studies have shown that the optimal field for focus fusion is around 15 GG.  However there is good motivation for looking at considerably lower fields. First, it is easier to reach lower magnetic fields and in our experiments we will certainly reach them earlier than higher fields. Second, if we can get net energy production at lower fields, there are advantages to doing so. Lower fields would be created with lower current or larger anodes, and in both case the thermal and mechanical stresses on the anodes will be reduced. Finally, some have expressed skepticism that fields as high as 15 GG, almost 40 times higher than fields observed so far in the plasma focus, can really be achieved.

Early results of this study, conducted by Eric Lerner, have been encouraging. At fields as low as 3 GG, fusion ignition can occur. This is the point at which thermonuclear power exceeds x-ray energy loss rates and the plasmoid begin to heat very rapidly. More work will be needed to map out the full range of conditions �plasmoid radius, density, magnetic field—that can lead to net energy production. These will eventually be incorporated into a technical paper.