Pranos Fusion plans to finalize designs for PRANIK fusion reactor by 2027
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Nuclear & new energy technology· Prelims·
Nuclear fusion and deeptech innovation: a key GS3 Science & Technology topic.
Why in news
Bengaluru-based startup Pranos Fusion announced plans to finalize designs for PRANIK, a large fusion reactor, by 2027.
Background
Pranos Fusion is a deeptech startup incubated at the Institute of Plasma Research (affiliated with Department of Atomic Energy and JNCASR). The company currently uses the PRAGYA tokamak to test plasma control and superconducting magnets, having raised $7.2 million.
Facts for Prelims
- S&TTokamak: A doughnut-shaped nuclear reactor that uses powerful magnets to hold superheated plasma away from walls to facilitate fusion.
- FactPRANIK: The name of the large fusion reactor for which designs are expected to be finalized by 2027.
- BodyInstitute of Plasma Research: A body affiliated with the Department of Atomic Energy and JNCASR, Bengaluru.
- S&TFusion Process: Involves merging hydrogen isotopes (deuterium and tritium) into helium and a fast neutron, requiring temperatures around 100 million degrees Celsius.
- PostShaurya Kaushal: Co-founder and CEO of Pranos Fusion.
Prelims practice question
With reference to nuclear fusion technology, consider the following statements:
- The Institute of Plasma Research is an independent body with no affiliation to the Department of Atomic Energy.
- The PRANIK reactor is a small-scale reactor designed for immediate commercial use.
- The fusion process involves merging hydrogen isotopes into helium and a fast neutron.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)1 only
- (b)2 only
- (c)3 only
- (d)2 and 3 only
Show answer
Answer: (c) 3 only — Statement 3 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect: It is affiliated with the Department of Atomic Energy and JNCASR. Statement 2 is incorrect: It is a large fusion reactor.
For Mains
Q. Discuss the potential of nuclear fusion as a sustainable energy source for India's future energy security and the role of private startups in deeptech innovation.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Technological hurdle: Maintaining plasma stability at 100 million degrees Celsius using superconducting magnets.
- Safety advantage: Fusion's ability to produce power without the long-lived radioactive waste associated with fission.
- Economic viability: High initial capital costs and infrastructure requirements for private-sector fusion reactor deployment.
Keywords: Nuclear Fusion · Tokamak · Deeptech · Energy Security · Plasma Physics · Sustainable Energy
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