The Institute of Plasma Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, commonly referred to as ASIPP, stands as a testament to China's commitment to harnessing the power of fusion energy for peaceful purposes. Established with vision and foresight in September 1978, this institution was built on the principle of utilizing the immense potential of fusion energy, drawing inspiration from the tokamak approach – a method that has become synonymous with controlled fusion reactions.
The prime objective of ASIPP is to delve deep into the realms of high-temperature plasma physics, where the institute has made significant strides in understanding the complex behavior of plasma, a state of matter that can exist at temperatures exceeding 10 million degrees Celsius. The research conducted here is not just theoretical; it has practical applications, particularly in the field of magnetically confined fusion engineering. This branch of study focuses on the development and optimization of devices like tokamaks, which use strong magnetic fields to confine and control the plasma needed for fusion reactions.
Beyond these core areas of research, ASIPP also engages in a variety of other important projects that are crucial for advancing our understanding of fusion energy. These endeavors range from investigations into the fundamental physical processes that occur within plasma to the design and construction of large-scale experimental facilities that simulate the conditions necessary for fusion to occur. By pushing the boundaries of what is known about plasma physics and fusion engineering, ASIPP is not only contributing to the advancement of scientific knowledge but also playing a pivotal role in the pursuit of clean and abundant energy sources for future generations.
ASIPP is a key lab for magnetically confined fusion in China. It has constructed HT-6B, HT-6M, HT-7, China's first superconducting tokamak, and EAST, the world's first full superconducting tokamak with a non-circular cross-section. On EAST, ASIPP has achieved advanced physical experiment results, winning two National Science and Technology Progress Awards and other honors.
ASIPP has forged robust and mutually beneficial collaborations with over thirty nations and territories, spanning the EU, the USA, Russia, Japan, and numerous others. As a pivotal player in China's contribution to the ITER project, ASIPP has assumed responsibility for an extensive array of procurement packages (PAs), encompassing superconducting conductors, correction coils, superconducting current leads, power supply systems, and diagnostic tools. This represents an impressive share of 73% of China's total ITER PA tasks.
Remarkably, all these ITER PA endeavors have been executed with exemplary precision, adhering to the highest quality standards and adhering strictly to schedules. This outstanding performance has garnered widespread recognition and acclaim from the global fusion community, underscoring ASIPP's expertise and dedication to advancing the frontiers of scientific research.
ASIPP places significant emphasis on the industrialization and practical application of fusion engineering and its associated spin-off technologies. It has successfully established nearly 20 companies, fostering both economic growth and societal advancements. Huainan New Energy Research Center stands as a prime illustration, meticulously crafted to bridge the gap from foundational research to full-scale industrialization.
As of 2022, the ASIPP boasts a robust and diverse community consisting of over 900 faculty members and supporting staff, as well as a vibrant cohort of more than 500 graduate students. This talented assembly is strategically positioned across 14 divisions, 2 technical centers, 2 administrative departments, and numerous high-tech enterprises. Notably, four esteemed scientists from ASIPP have been awarded the prestigious honor of academicianship by the Chinese Academy of Engineering. Annually, the institute identifies and fosters exceptional researchers through esteemed talent development programs, notably the National Science Fund for Distinguished Young Scholars and the National Support Plan for High-level Talents.
ASIPP offers prestigious doctoral programs specializing in plasma physics and fusion engineering, alongside master's degrees spanning 11 diverse disciplines, such as electricity and emerging technologies, cryogenics, and nuclear technologies. Furthermore, it houses a dynamic and productive postdoctoral research station. Throughout its history, ASIPP has proudly graduated over 1000 students and currently nurtures approximately 400 students within its prestigious academic environment.
Moreover, ASIPP is the proud publisher of Plasma Science and Technology, the sole domestic professional academic journal in this field, published in English. This esteemed publication has garnered recognition from renowned indexing services including EI, SCI, and SA, with its impact factor consistently demonstrating an upward trend.