Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory

Princeton Plasma Physical Laboratory (PPPL) is a collaborative national center for plasma and fusion energy sciences. It is the only DOE Laboratory devoted to these areas, and it is the lead U.S. institution investigating the science of magnetic fusion energy. PPPL has two coupled missions: The Laboratory develops the scientific knowledge to realize fusion energy as a clean, safe and abundant energy source for all humankind, leading development of the physics of high-temperature plasmas needed for fusion. Also, PPPL develops the scientific understanding of plasmas from nano- to astrophysical-scale. Modern plasma physics began with the advent of the world fusion program, and continues to lead to new discoveries of this complex state of matter.

Visit PPPL's home page here.

Contact Information

Contractor: Princeton University

Head, Communications and Public Outreach: Andrew Zwicker

Technology Transfer: Laurie Bagley

Intellectual Property: Laurie Bagley

Core Capabilities

  • Plasma and Fusion Energy Sciences
  • Large-Scale User Facilities/Advanced Instrumentation
  • Mechanical Design and Engineering
  • Power Systems and Electrical Engineering
  • Systems Engineering and Integration

Mission Unique Facilities

PPPL has extensive capabilities in: plasma measurement, heating, and current drive system design and construction; safe and environmentally benign facility operation; and specialized magnetic fusion confinement facility design and construction. These strengths, together with an enormously capable research complex for fusion research (shielded test cells, high-current power supplies, extensive cryogenic facilities, and high-speed broad-band network) support the operation of the National Spherical Experiment – Upgrade, aid in the development and testing of components for ITER, and enable collaborations on major national and international fusion research facilities.