Afbeelding
Jorn Veenendaal
My work
“Plasma physics is sort of the Wild West of science. DIFFER operates at the cutting edge globally when it comes to plasma control technologies. We are specifically interested in plasma dynamics: how and at what speeds does plasma respond to injections of cold gas, and how can we use that knowledge? To me, finding the mathematical answers to those questions is the holy grail of fusion reactor control engineering.”
“My work takes place at the intersection between fundamental control and plasma physics, with the specific goal of addressing the nuclear fusion world’s desire for a practical reactor that may eventually be used to heat your home.”
“The ultimate purpose of the tokamak, a device that uses strong magnetic fields to contain plasma at very high temperatures and thereby achieve nuclear fusion, is to serve as a stable source of clean energy. In a world of renewable resources such as wind and solar power, it’s nice to also have an energy source available that’s always ready to go. The plasma control system we are currently developing should eventually help make a safe nuclear fusion reactor possible that is a net energy source. Our cooling techniques will protect that tokamak’s wall and core.”
My background
“My background is in mechatronics, where every physical process is well-understood – unlike for exhaust control.”
The organisation
“Our team always has coffee together first at 9 a.m. I really value that. It’s nice to know what everyone is up to and it’s also very good for team building. What I do during the rest of the day varies enormously. I may be creating models, building a controller, reviewing the British tokamak’s plasma control system, writing a paper or simply helping out a colleague. It’s very enjoyable and diverse.”
“I feel lucky that DIFFER is such a pleasant place to work, and I know nearly everyone by name or on sight. It’s a great group of people. We listen to each other and help each other out. If you get stuck on something, you can always ask a colleague if they have time to talk over coffee.”