14-6-2023 (BANGKOK) Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha has expressed satisfaction with the advancements made in Thailand’s Tokamak I (TT-1) nuclear fusion energy technology, emphasizing its significant role in the nation’s pursuit of sustainable energy solutions.
During a presentation at Government House on Tuesday, Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation Anek Laothamatas and Executive Director of the Thailand Institute of Nuclear Technology (TINT), Assoc Prof Thawatchai Onjun, briefed Gen Prayut on the progress of nuclear fusion energy development in the country.
Government spokesman Anucha Burapachaisri revealed that the TT-1 facility is located in Nakhon Nayok province and was generously donated by the Institute of Plasma Physics Chinese Academy of Sciences (ASIPP) as a gift to HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn. Thailand has become the first country in Southeast Asia to possess a tokamak device, courtesy of China’s gesture.
According to TINT, the TT-1 operates by harnessing the heat generated from nuclear fusion reactions, akin to the process that occurs in the Sun. Currently, the device is capable of generating heat up to 100,000 degrees Celsius (°C), with the potential to reach temperatures of up to a million °C in the future.
The spokesman highlighted that the Tokamak device will contribute to the development of one of Thailand’s sustainable energy sources. Furthermore, the technology holds promise for applications in various sectors, including industry, agriculture, and medicine.
The Prime Minister expressed his gratitude to all parties involved, including TINT, the Synchrotron Light Research Institute, and the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (Egat), for their collaboration in establishing a stable energy source and advancing scientific and technological capabilities to enhance the country’s competitiveness.
He emphasized the importance of nurturing skilled professionals in the field of fusion technology and strengthening Thailand’s expertise in science and engineering.
Gen Prayut underscored that TT-1 represents an alternative energy source that addresses environmental concerns, as it produces clean energy without contributing to greenhouse gas emissions.
TINT installed the TT-1 facility in February of this year and successfully conducted a test run on April 21, marking a significant milestone towards full-scale operations scheduled for next month, the spokesman revealed.
Over the next decade, TINT plans to construct the country’s first in-house fusion device, positioning Thailand as a hub for the development of fusion technology, Mr Anucha added.
