CALL FOR COMMERCIALIZATION PARTNERS: Plasma Liner Experiment (PLX)

On behalf of Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), Triad National Security, LLC (Triad) invites qualified commercial partners to submit proposals for the advancement, commercialization, and deployment of the Plasma Liner Experiment (PLX) —a novel, scalable platform for plasma-jet-driven magneto-inertial fusion (PJMIF) and high-energy plasma applications.

Triad seeks commercialization partners from aerospace, fusion, and advanced energy sectors who can commit to a phased, multi-year commercialization plan. Partners should address how they intend to relocate PLX from LANL, develop and implement a roadmap for short- and long-term markets, and deploy the platform into high-demand short-term markets while advancing fusion development.

BACKGROUND

The plasma-jet-driven magneto-inertial fusion (PJMIF) concept originated at LANL in 2010 as a hybrid between magnetic confinement fusion (MCF) and inertial confinement fusion (ICF). It uses high-speed plasma jets to create a spherical plasma liner that compresses a magnetized plasma target to achieve fusion conditions.

PLX Milestones to Date:

• Built and operated a 36-gun array of supersonic plasma jets to form spherical plasma liners.

• Built and operated a 6-gun array of magnetized plasma jets to form plasma targets.

• Demonstrated liner symmetry and ram pressure performance in experiments.

• Developed and integrated real-time diagnostic systems.

• Will achieve deuterium target compression with a plasma liner toward fusion-relevant parameters by mid-2026.

ABOUT TECHNOLOGY

Key Features

• Hybrid Fusion Model — Combines strengths of MCF and ICF for potentially lower-cost, modular scale-up.

• Non-destructive Operation — Plasma jets are isolated from the burn region, reducing wear and extending system life.

• Scalable Architecture — Configurable number of plasma guns for different performance needs.

• Compact Footprint — Operates without large magnets or multi-megajoule lasers.

• High Repetition Potential — Designed for repeatable, rapid test cycles.

• Real-time diagnostics and control software.

Technology Readiness Level: 3

Patent Status: Pending (App. 63/725137)

Copyright Status: PLX Firmware- LabVIEW (#T4974), Plasma Liner Experiment (PLX) LabVIEW Control System (#T4951)

SUBMIT YOUR COMMERCIAL PLAN TO

Richard P. Feynman Center for Innovation at PLXT2M@lanl.gov

Subject: PLX Commercial Plan Submission

LEGAL AND DISCLAIMERS

This Call for Commercialization Partners does not constitute a solicitation for procurement or licensing negotiations. Submissions will be evaluated for suitability and alignment with LANL’s mission. Qualified respondents will be invited to participate in follow-up discussions and may receive a request for full business proposals.