Helical Fusion CTO Delivers Seminar at Tohoku University’s Institute for Materials Research

On May 23, 2025, Dr. Junichi Miyazawa, Co-Founder and CTO of Helical Fusion, gave a lecture on the social implementation of fusion energy at the Kasada Laboratory Seminar, held at the Institute for Materials Research, Tohoku University.

Over 40 participants gathered at the venue and listened intently to Dr. Miyazawa’s presentation.

Helical Fusion has been engaged in joint research with the Kasada Laboratory, a global leader in advanced materials science, to develop next-generation metallic materials for fusion reactors.

As we pursue the world’s first steady-state fusion reactor, we are committed to transforming these cutting-edge research achievements into real-world impact, advancing both technology and industry.

About the Novel Material Being Co-Developed

In fusion power generation, neutrons produced during the reaction are used to extract energy. However, they also activate steel structures within the reactor, resulting in radioactive waste. To mitigate this, research has focused on developing low-activation ferritic steels that reduce radiation levels over a shorter time frame.

A major challenge has been that most low-activation steels are magnetic, which can disturb the magnetic confinement of plasma—essential for maintaining stable fusion conditions.

Through our collaboration with Tohoku University, we are working to develop non-magnetic, low-activation materials that do not interfere with plasma confinement, minimize the formation of long-lived radioactive waste, and resist high-temperature oxidation—a critical step toward safer and more efficient fusion plants.