IFMIF-DONES participated in ISLA-9, one of the main international meetings on liquid metal applications in fusion.

Our colleague Jesús Fernández Reche attended the ninth edition of the symposium, held from 14 to 18 September 2026 in Eindhoven (The Netherlands), which brought together scientists and engineers from around the world to discuss the latest advances and technological challenges related to the use of liquid metals in future fusion reactors.

During the event, key topics included the development of self-healing and radiation-resistant materials, considered a promising alternative to solid materials in contact with plasma. In this context, the event presented different technological solutions, including porous capillary structures, vapour box divertors and fast-flow systems, as well as the potential of lithium to improve plasma performance.

The role of liquid metal blankets was also highlighted, as they enable improved heat transfer, cost reduction and simplified system design, while allowing continuous replacement of breeding materials.

Organised by the Dutch Institute for Fundamental Energy Research, the ISLA symposium has been held biennially since 2009 and has established itself as a key forum for scientific and technological exchange in the field of liquid metals applied to fusion.