Materials surrounding a fusion reaction can dramatically increase how often it occurs
Researchers at UC Davis and Berkeley Lab have discovered that the materials surrounding a fusion reaction can significantly increase the reaction rate, particularly at low energies. This finding introduces the concept of 'materials-driven fusion,' which could lead to more efficient neutron generators for medical and security applications.
Why it matters
This breakthrough provides a new method for controlling nuclear fusion, potentially accelerating the development of compact energy and research technologies.
edited by Lisa Lock , reviewed by Robert Egan
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Add as preferred source Schematic of the dual-chamber configuration. Credit: Nature Communications (2026). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-026-74421-1 Fusion at high temperatures powers the sun and, if harnessed, could provide a potential source of energy here on Earth. But controlling fusion reactions has other benefits. The process also generates subatomic particles called neutrons that are used in a range of applications spanning medicine, research and national security.
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