Student Creates Affordable Fusion Reactor Using AI for Only $2,000
Student Builds Fusion Reactor with AI and $2,000 Budget
Source: NewsBytes
Innovative Achievement
A remarkable feat of engineering has emerged from Hudhayfa Nazoordeen, a mathematics student at the University of Waterloo, who constructed a mini fusion reactor at home with a budget of only $2,000, aided by AI chatbot Claude 3.5.
Project Overview
- Nazoordeen completed the project in just four weeks despite having no prior experience with hardware.
- The reactor mimics the tokamak design, a common setup used in nuclear fusion research.
Technical Challenges
Creating a fusion reactor at home posed several challenges, particularly in establishing a viable vacuum system.
Key Steps in Construction
- Week 1: Identified and acquired essential components, many sourced online.
- Week 2: Assembled the main chamber and rectifier circuit.
- Week 3: Set up reactor and integrated a 12kV neon sign transformer.
Vacuum System Challenges
The vacuum system was identified by Nazoordeen as the most challenging part due to needing to locate and seal tiny leaks. He ultimately achieved a vacuum of 25 millionths of an atmosphere, essential for the fusion process.
Role of AI in Development
Nazoordeen leveraged the AI capabilities of Claude 3.5 by providing it with datasheets, greatly assisting in the reactor's development.
Future Aspirations
Although the reactor has yet to achieve true fusion and does not emit neutrons, Nazoordeen plans to secure funding for further development towards a full fusor. His work has been acknowledged by peers, including a fellow engineer who praised his execution of an ambitious project that many only talk about.
