Fusion

Bertin has been involved in the Megajoule Laser strategic program with the CEA/DAM for more than 20 years, designing and supplying high-precision mechanical and optical assemblies. Bertin has thus provided equipment for the experiment hall and the alignment center room and has developed the target alignment system (SOPAC) and the common reference, which makes it possible to align the target and the laser beams, with an accuracy of a few microns. Bertin also provides equipment for the laser chain of the installation. Indeed, Bertin assists the CEA/DAM in system operation and works on the development of future equipment, including 22 laser chains that will gradually increase laser power in experiments.

After gaining experience in the Megajoule Laser (LMJ) inertial fusion program, Bertin Technologies has positioned itself as a key partner in the field of instrumentation for the analysis of very high temperature plasma during nuclear fusion reactions. Indeed, since 2009, the company has been involved in ITER, the International Nuclear Fusion Research project.

Fusion is a thermonuclear reaction that plays a central part in the formation of the universe and stars. It occurs under extreme pressure and temperature conditions, when two atomic nuclei come together to form a heavier nucleus, releasing a tremendous amount of energy in the process. Mastering the industrial factors of this energy source for electricity production is a major challenge for humanity today.

ITER project has been the focal point of international research on the issue since the 1950s and it has now become the largest international scientific experiment.

ITER brings together 35 countries and enables thousands of scientists, engineers and a large number of industrial players to pool together their expertise and skills, with the aim of industrialising fusion to make it a safe, clean and virtually unlimited source of energy.
As part of this unique project, Bertin Technologies is leveraging its expertise in spectroscopy, interferometry and scattered radiation measurement to provide Plasma Diagnostics systems for characterisation and control of the ITER Tokamak. Bertin Technologies is proud to be part of this adventure, and its results will be decisive with the hope of one day opening a new generation of power plants that use fusion to produce unlimited clean energy.