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UK and Japan Join Forces to Power Up Fusion Energy
The UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) and Japanese fusion trailblazers Kyoto Fusioneering (KF) have signed a major collaboration deal to push fusion energy tech forward. This partnership is set to supercharge the race for sustainable, commercial fusion power.
Revolutionary ‘Fusion-Grade’ Material in the Pipeline
The first project will see teams develop a cutting-edge silicon carbide composite (SiC/SiC), built to withstand the brutal environment inside fusion reactors. This material will be tested for stability under simulated fusion conditions, a crucial step toward real-world use.
SiC/SiC composites promise to boost the efficiency of fusion power stations by thriving in extreme heat and resisting damaging neutron radiation. The tech fits perfectly inside Kyoto Fusioneering’s Self-Cooled Yuryo Lithium Lead Advanced (SCYLLA ©) blanket system, designed for lithium-lead coolant and fuel breeding fluids. Novel materials like these can cope with the corrosive lithium-lead environment where traditional materials fail.
Expertise and Innovation from Both Sides
Kyoto Fusioneering brings deep know-how in creating silicon carbide materials, from raw production to manufacturing composite components. But testing irradiated materials requires advanced facilities — that’s where UKAEA’s Materials Research Facility (MRF) steps in.
At the MRF, scientists use new Post Irradiation Examination (PIE) techniques to crack how radiation damages the microstructure of SiC/SiC. As a fibre-reinforced composite, it needs novel testing methods to unlock its secrets.
Fusion CEOs Back the Power Pact
Kyoto Fusioneering CEO Taka Nagao said: “Our work with UKAEA has created a win-win for fusion research and industry. This new ‘fusion-grade’ composite isn’t just a leap for commercial fusion — it’s vital in our fight against climate change.”
UKAEA CEO Professor Sir Ian Chapman added: “Fusion power on the grid is no easy feat. This deal strengthens our partnership with Kyoto Fusioneering to tackle the toughest challenges and help make fusion energy a reality — a game-changer for energy security and the environment.”
Driving Toward a Fusion Future
Kyoto Fusioneering is already a key player in UK fusion projects like the Spherical Tokamak for Energy Production (STEP). Their role in fuel cycle tech shows the trust and value of this collaboration.
Both teams are united by a mission: to commercialise fusion and unlock a clean, sustainable energy future for generations to come.
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