Seventeen-year-old Cesare Mencarini, a student at Cardiff Sixth Form College’s Cambridge campus, has taken a bold step into the world of nuclear science. As part of his Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), Mencarini built a nuclear fusion reactor, a project that earned him top marks and attracted significant attention. His achievement was so impressive that he was invited to present his work at the Cambridge Science Festival, showcasing his ingenuity and dedication to scientific exploration.
The inspiration for Mencarini’s project came from a YouTube video, which sparked his interest in nuclear fusion. Despite having no formal training in the necessary skills, Mencarini took it upon himself to learn the electrical and coding knowledge required to build a functional nuclear reactor. His objective was to create a reactor capable of generating plasma hot enough to produce neutrons, a crucial component of the fusion process.
Resourcefulness Under Constraints
Working with a budget of just over $6,500 (£5,000), Mencarini had to be creative in his approach to building the reactor. He faced the dual challenge of adhering to financial limitations while ensuring the reactor could achieve the desired scientific outcomes. To meet these challenges, he designed custom-made parts and utilized a Raspberry Pi to host the reactor’s coding and control systems. Despite these constraints, Mencarini managed to create a reactor that successfully generated plasma, a significant scientific achievement.
Safety was a primary concern throughout the project. Cardiff Sixth Form College initially hesitated to support such an undertaking due to potential risks. However, after conducting thorough risk assessments, the college was reassured of the project’s safety. With the green light from the administration, Mencarini proceeded, receiving full backing from the college, which recognized the educational and innovative value of his work.
Recognition and Opportunities
Mencarini’s ability to generate plasma, despite not achieving full fusion, is noteworthy, especially considering the complexities involved in nuclear fusion. Achieving fusion requires replicating the extreme temperatures and pressures found in the sun, conditions that are challenging even in professional, large-scale research environments. Mencarini’s success in creating plasma demonstrates his capability to understand and apply complex scientific principles, positioning him as a remarkable young talent in the field.
His work did not go unnoticed. Dr. Yannick Verbelen, a senior associate from the University of Bristol, was highly impressed by Mencarini’s achievements. As a result, Mencarini has been offered a work placement at the University of Bristol, where he will have the opportunity to work on larger reactors. This placement will provide Mencarini with invaluable experience and deepen his understanding of nuclear fusion, significantly advancing his educational and career prospects.
A Future in Engineering
Looking ahead, Mencarini plans to pursue a degree in engineering, with applications to universities planned after his year at the University of Bristol. His early accomplishments have already set a strong foundation for a career in the energy industry. Mencarini’s work not only reflects his personal dedication and ingenuity but also serves as an example of how young minds can contribute to solving some of the world’s most complex challenges.
By building a nuclear reactor as part of his high school project, Cesare Mencarini has demonstrated that innovation knows no age limit. His achievement underscores the importance of encouraging students to explore their interests and take on ambitious projects. Mencarini’s journey is a testament to what can be achieved with passion, creativity, and a willingness to push the boundaries of what is possible, inspiring other young people to think boldly about how they can make a difference in the world.
