⚛️ Future nuclear fusion reactors could produce dark matter

Could nuclear fusion reactors help us solve the enigma of dark matter? A recent theoretical study examines this lead, linking fusion energy production to the generation of these elusive particles.

Axions are hypothetical particles that could explain a portion of dark matter. This invisible component dominates the cosmos, shaping galaxies without emitting light. Although not directly detected, its gravitational influence guides the motion of stars and cosmic structures.


Researchers from the University of Cincinnati and other institutions have analyzed a fusion reactor using deuterium and tritium. The design of this type of reactor, developed in France, incorporates a lithium-lined chamber to optimize reactions. An approach that could turn these facilities into sources of new particles.

In this type of reactor, neutrons from fusion interact with the walls. These collisions cause nuclear reactions that release energy and could lead to the creation of axions. This mechanism differs from solar processes, thus allowing a production pathway in the laboratory. This perspective opens the door to practical experiments to test theories.

This idea has even appeared in the television series The Big Bang Theory. On whiteboards, similar equations were sketched, but the characters Sheldon and Leonard never managed to solve them.