IFMIF-DONES (International Fusion Materials Irradiation Facility – DEMO Oriented Neutron Source) is a large international research infrastructure currently under construction in Escúzar (Granada), Spain.
The facility will produce a high-intensity neutron flux replicating the conditions expected inside future fusion reactors. Its primary purpose is to test and qualify materials that will be used in fusion power plants.
Further information:
https://ifmif-dones.es/
Why IFMIF-DONES Matters
Fusion reactors expose structural materials to extremely intense neutron radiation. These conditions cannot be reproduced in existing experimental facilities.
IFMIF-DONES will enable:
- Qualification of materials for future fusion power plants
- Testing of structural components under fusion-relevant conditions
- Validation of materials for DEMO and commercial reactors
The facility is therefore a critical step between ITER and future fusion power plants.
Facility Overview
IFMIF-DONES consists of several major systems:
- A high-power deuteron accelerator
- Liquid lithium target system
- Materials irradiation test modules
- Remote handling and maintenance systems
- Large experimental and control infrastructure
The accelerator will generate a powerful deuteron beam that strikes a flowing lithium target. This interaction produces a neutron flux similar to that expected in a fusion reactor.
Test samples exposed to these neutrons will allow researchers to evaluate material behavior over the lifetime of future fusion plants.
Industrial Opportunities
As a facility currently under construction, IFMIF-DONES offers significant supply chain opportunities.
Industry participation is required in areas including:
- Accelerator technology
- Vacuum and cryogenic systems
- High-precision manufacturing
- Lithium handling systems
- Radiation shielding and materials
- Remote handling systems
- Diagnostics and instrumentation
- Control systems and digital infrastructure
Companies with experience in large research infrastructures, accelerator technology, nuclear engineering, or advanced materials systems are particularly well positioned to participate.
Procurement and Industry Engagement
Companies interested in participating in IFMIF-DONES should monitor procurement channels and technical calls.
Key resources include:
- IFMIF-DONES official website: https://ifmif-dones.es/
- Procurement and industrial opportunities: https://ifmif-dones.es
Industry engagement is coordinated through the international partners and project organization.
For German companies, support is also available through FILO and the European Industrial Liaison network, which can assist with:
- Understanding procurement procedures
- Identifying collaboration partners
- Accessing upcoming tenders and market surveys
Why Early Engagement Matters
As with ITER, participation in IFMIF-DONES construction offers companies the opportunity to:
- Develop fusion-relevant competencies
- Enter qualification processes early
- Build relationships with international project teams
- Position themselves for future DEMO and commercial fusion projects
Facilities like IFMIF-DONES form a crucial bridge between experimental fusion research and the industrial deployment of fusion energy.