This issue explores the role of niobium superconductors in the ITER fusion project, the re-emergence of Western Australia as a major tantalum supplier, and previews the 59th General Assembly in Kigali. It features the 2018 Ekeberg Prize shortlist, a technical introduction to field-portable XRF, and a wide-ranging update on tantalum-niobium patents.
Explore Bulletin No. 174 featuring niobium’s role in ITER superconducting magnets, the resurgence of WA tantalum supply, and the 2018 Ekeberg Prize shortlist.
ITER: Niobium Superconductors Show the Way
This technical overview outlines how niobium-tin (Nb₃Sn) and niobium-titanium (NbTi) superconductors are powering the world’s largest magnetic fusion project, ITER. The article explains the physics of fusion, details the roles of the central solenoid, toroidal, poloidal, and correction coils, and underscores niobium’s critical role in future clean energy generation.