German scientists develop electrochemical method to coat fusion reactors with pure tungsten

German scientists from the Max Planck Institute for Plasma Physics and IoLiTec have developed the world's first electrochemical method to coat fusion reactors with pure tungsten, addressing a critical challenge in fusion energy development. The breakthrough uses anhydrous electrolytes based on ionic liquids instead of traditional aqueous solutions, which cannot deposit tungsten metal. This technique allows thin tungsten layers to be applied to base materials, combining tungsten's exceptional heat resistance and ability to withstand loads up to 10 megawatts per square meter with economic practicality for fusion reactor construction.