MPEX to Advance Fusion Energy Research at Oak Ridge National Laboratory

The Material Plasma Exposure eXperiment (MPEX) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory aims to address challenges in fusion energy, particularly in developing plasma-facing components (PFCs) that withstand extreme conditions. MPEX is a linear plasma facility designed to simulate the conditions at the edge of a fusion reactor, enabling rapid testing of materials over weeks instead of decades.

It will begin operations in 2028 and is expected to support the design and engineering of future fusion reactors by providing insights into plasma-material interactions. MPEX's ability to replicate the lifetime of materials under fusion conditions and test neutron-irradiated samples will enhance understanding of material degradation. The facility will also collaborate with the fusion research community to accelerate the commercialization of fusion technology, ultimately contributing to the development of robust fusion power plants.