Author(s) :

Ella Chan.

Volume/Issue :

Abstract :

Nuclear fusion is a clean energy source which could help replace fossil fuels to minimize the harmful global impact of climate change. A number of organizations globally have built nuclear fusion reactors, but none of them are currently commercially viable. This review assesses nuclear fusion as a potential energy source for the future, identifying key risks, advantages, and next steps. Hazards identified include explosions, plasma instabilities, and magnetic discharge. Although these risks exist, the likelihood for these accidents to occur was found to be minimal and appropriate safety measures are available. Key challenges that emerged are limited fuel supply and high cost. The primary advantage of nuclear fusion as an energy source is its efficiency (one gram of fuel can produce as much energy as ten tons of coal). A review of historical progress, vital success metrics, and projected future development of nuclear fusion indicates that nuclear fusion could be ready for commercial application as early as 2050. Future research should focus on achieving ignition and self-sustaining plasma to reach commercial viability.