Quantum Computing and Nuclear Fusion

Sourish Dey -, KOUSHIK PAUL -

Nuclear fusion is a great promise for the route toward clean, abundant, and sustainable energy, possibly solving the limits of contemporary resources. Yet, models for controlled fusion on Earth demand so much simulation: calculations into particle interaction and plasma behavior and even reaction dynamics that defy strict classical calculation. Quantum computing-that has the ability to support those complex, multi-dimensional calculations-offers hope in the fusion research frontier. This paper introduces quantum algorithms, such as Quantum Phase Estimation for predictions of energy states, Variational Quantum Eigen solver for modeling particle interactions, and Quantum Monte Carlo to simulate stochastic processes like plasma turbulence. The algorithms together will facilitate precise modeling and optimization of the fusion parameters to maximize energy output and reactor stability. This hybrid quantum-classical approach will be: classical computers for preprocessing data and intensive simulations using quantum processors. Preliminary experimental data from IBM Quantum suggests that quantum algorithms could be more efficient and accurate than their classical counterparts. This work, therefore, demonstrates the potential that quantum computing holds to speed up research in fusion, leading to a scalable solution for high-stakes applications in energy and the scientific domain.

Joseph A. Formaggio

Alessandro Baroni

Iain Lee, A. Díaz-Torres

Low-energy nuclear fusion reactions have been described using a dynamical coupled-channels density matrix method, based on the theory of open quantum systems. For the first time, this has been combined with an energy projection method, permitting the calculation of energy resolved fusion probabilities. The results are benchmarked against calculations using stationary Schrödinger dynamics and show excellent agreement. Calculations of entropy, energy dissipation and coherence were conducted, demonstrating the capability of this method. It is evident that the presence of quantum decoherence does not affect fusion probability. This framework provides a basis for quantum thermodynamic studies using thermal environments.

Chavis Srichan

Natalie Kloco