Plasma-facing materials

Plasma-facing materials are the surfaces inside a fusion reactor that come into direct contact with the extremely hot plasma—ionized gas at millions of degrees. These materials must withstand intense heat, radiation, and particle bombardment while maintaining structural integrity. Their role is crucial for protecting the reactor’s components, ensuring safe and efficient operation of fusion devices like tokamaks or stellarators. Common materials include tungsten and carbon-based composites, chosen for their high melting points, durability, and resistance to damage under extreme conditions.