From December 13 to 16, 2024, the 3rd National Linear Plasma Device Symposium was successfully held in Chongqing. Organized by the Plasma Physics Division of the Chinese Physical Society and hosted by Chongqing University’s College of Electrical Engineering and the National Key Laboratory of Power Transmission and Distribution Equipment Technology, the event attracted 104 researchers from 37 institutions, including universities, research institutes, and enterprises such as the Institute of Plasma Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian University of Technology, University of Science and Technology of China, Beihang University, and Harbin Institute of Technology.
The symposium focused on cutting-edge advancements in linear plasma devices, spanning plasma science, materials science, advanced diagnostic technologies, high-voltage engineering, strong magnetic field technologies, and fusion energy. Discussions were structured around four key themes:Transient + Steady-State Plasma Discharge，
Plasma Sources for Linear Devices，Critical Technologies and Applications of Linear Devices，Advanced Linear Device Design.
HHMAX delivered a presentation titled “Development and Application Prospects of the HHMAX Field-Reversed Configuration (FRC) Fusion Device”, detailing the physics and engineering foundations of its FRC fusion approach, the design concept of the formation region device, progress on its first-generation neutron source prototype, as well as economic considerations for commercialization and the company’s strategic roadmap.
The symposium featured 52 presentations, including 21 invited talks and 31 oral reports. Following the academic sessions, attendees visited the Chongqing University History Museum and the National Key Laboratory of Power Transmission and Distribution Equipment Technology. Through guided tours and discussions, participants gained insights into the university’s rich history and cultural heritage and explored the laboratory’s advanced research facilities and innovative achievements.
Linear plasma devices play a vital role in addressing fundamental challenges such as wave-plasma interactions, thermal load on wall materials in plasma environments, confinement and stability, and plasma turbulence and transport. They are also critical for space environment simulation and basic plasma physics research.
Supported by national initiatives like the National Magnetic Confinement Fusion Energy Development Program and the National Natural Science Foundation of China, China’s plasma science and technology research community has achieved rapid growth. In recent years, domestic universities and institutes have developed diverse linear plasma devices, contributing significantly to national strategic needs and global scientific frontiers.
The 3rd National Linear Plasma Device Symposium strengthened academic exchanges among experts across disciplines, fostered interdisciplinary collaboration, and propelled the advancement of linear plasma device research. HHMAX’s participation underscores its commitment to driving innovation in fusion energy and plasma technologies, aligning with its mission to accelerate the commercialization of clean energy solutions.