UNITY: Kyoto Fusioneering’s Unique Integrated Testing Facility for Fusion Power Generation

One of the major research and development challenges on the critical path to achieving a fusion pilot plant is demonstrating the viability of power production from fusion. In August 2022, Kyoto Fusioneering launched the construction of the world’s first integrated testing facility for fusion power generation. The primary testing loop of the facility will initially adopt PbLi, with the prospect of adding an additional molten salt loop, with dimensions of around 5 × 5 × 3 m with a coolant inventory of approximately 100 L. To be completed in 2025, this facility will demonstrate (1) heat extraction from a mock-up blanket, (2) high-temperature heat transfer and exchange, (3) electricity generation from blanket heat, and (4) hydrogen isotope extraction under commercially relevant conditions—to be completed in time for the first-generation demonstration fusion plants. This facility is named UNITY, standing for Unique Integrated Testing facilitY to symbolize the integration of all critical components.