Our Technology / Magnetized Target Fusion

Magnetized Target Fusion

Benefits of Magnetized Target Fusion Technology (MTF)

Key benefits of our technology include:

  • Durable fusion machine: When fusion occurs, the reaction is surrounded by a liquid metal wall which shields the vessel from neutron activation. This protects the machine from fusion damage.
  • Abundant fuel: When neutrons are absorbed in the liquid lithium wall, they can create tritium fuel at a ratio greater than 1.5, sufficient fusion fuel to support operations for the life of the power plant.
  • Simple energy conversion: The liquid metal wall absorbs neutrons and heat from fusion, and then the hot liquid metal is pumped through a heat exchanger to create steam and spin a traditional steam turbine.
  • Economical fusion power using existing materials: No need for expensive magnets, targets, or lasers, and no frequent replacements of neutron-damaged components.
What is MTF?
General Fusion’s Magnetized Target Fusion technology uniquely addresses critical barriers to fusion energy. It uses mechanical compression to create fusion conditions in short pulses, eliminating the need for expensive lasers or superconducting magnets. An MTF power plant is designed to produce its own fuel and inherently includes a method to extract the energy and put it to work.
How does MTF work?
What sets General Fusion apart from the outset is our practical MTF approach with a liquid metal wall. By addressing key barriers such as material degradation, fuel production, energy capture, and cost, our commercial design offers a practical path without relying on expensive lasers or superconducting magnets.
What are the benefits of MTF?
General Fusion’s MTF uses the combined effects of moderate energy confinement time and moderate plasma density to achieve fusion in a practical way.