Iran has launched a programme to develop nuclear fusion reactors, a distant dream yet for the whole world. This programme is known to be the most ambitious and audacious ever in Iran’s history.
Nuclear fusion generates power by nuclear fusion reactions. Here, two light atomic nuclei fuse together to produce a large atomic nucleus, and in the process release large amounts of energy. Power produced from fusion reactions is almost limitless. This is the reason why countries want to harness the potential life saver technology. Moreover, fusion energy is clean as compared to fission or power produced from coal or petroleum. But, fusion has another angle to it. Originally, fusion was conceived as a military exploit that could change a country’s equation with the world. As a result, there is potential in two directions, construction and destruction.
Since the programme is security specific, so the international community made efforts to build a plant in 2006. But, costs have soared from 5 billion Euros to 15 billion Euros. Presently the Joint European Torus(JET) conducts the largest fusion experiment in the world. JET still holds the world record for the generation of fusion energy: in 1997, 16 megawatts were generated during 1 second, and a continuous fusion capacity of 4 MW during 4 seconds.
Iran has raised world concerns by starting this programme. International Atomic Agency’s report on Iran has raised suspicions regarding its claims of peaceful use of nuclear technology. According to IAEA “ Iran has not provided the necessary co-operation to permit the agency to confirm that all nuclear material in Iran is for peaceful activities. Iran is not implementing the requirements contained in the relevant resolutions of the board of governors and the security council… which are essential to building confidence in the exclusively peaceful purpose of its nuclear programme and to resolve outstanding questions. In particular, Iran needs to co-operate in clarifying outstanding issues which give rise to concerns about possible military dimensions to Iran's nuclear programme. ”
It seems the race will continue for some time!
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