References
A curated list of references for learning about nuclear fusion, organized by category.
Introductory Books
Section titled “Introductory Books”Recommended books for those new to nuclear fusion.
-
J. Wesson, Tokamaks (4th ed.), Oxford University Press, 2011
- The definitive reference on tokamak physics. Comprehensive coverage of plasma physics, MHD stability, transport, and heating methods.
-
R.J. Goldston & P.H. Rutherford, Introduction to Plasma Physics, CRC Press, 1995
- A widely used textbook covering fundamental plasma physics concepts essential for understanding fusion.
-
F.F. Chen, Introduction to Plasma Physics and Controlled Fusion (3rd ed.), Springer, 2016
- An accessible introduction to plasma physics with clear explanations of basic concepts and their applications to fusion.
Advanced Texts
Section titled “Advanced Texts”For those seeking deeper understanding of fusion science and engineering.
-
J.P. Freidberg, Plasma Physics and Fusion Energy, Cambridge University Press, 2007
- A graduate-level textbook bridging plasma physics fundamentals with fusion energy applications.
-
T.J.M. Boyd & J.J. Sanderson, The Physics of Plasmas, Cambridge University Press, 2003
- Rigorous treatment of plasma physics theory including kinetic theory, waves, and instabilities.
-
M. Kikuchi, K. Lackner & M.Q. Tran (eds.), Fusion Physics, IAEA, 2012
- Comprehensive reference covering all aspects of fusion physics, freely available from the IAEA.
Reactor Engineering
Section titled “Reactor Engineering”Technical references for fusion reactor design and engineering.
-
Y. Stacey, Fusion Plasma Physics, Wiley-VCH, 2012
- Covers both plasma physics and engineering aspects of fusion reactors.
-
T. Tanabe (ed.), Tritium: Fuel of Fusion Reactors, Springer, 2017
- Detailed coverage of tritium science including production, handling, and safety.
Online Resources
Section titled “Online Resources”Web-based resources for staying current with fusion research.
-
- Official website of the ITER project with news, technical information, and educational resources.
-
- European consortium for fusion research with publications and educational materials.
-
- U.S. Department of Energy’s fusion research program information.
-
- International Atomic Energy Agency’s fusion research resources and publications.