# ACED: Exploring Kinetic Physics in High-Temperature Plasmas via Low-Rank Computing Techniques -- Unraveling Atomic and Nuclear Reactions

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · University of Washington (WA) · $500,000

## Abstract

High-temperature plasmas, composed of electrically charged particles, interact primarily through collective effects involving many particles at once. However, occasional collisions between just two particles can lead to significant changes, such as the creation of charged ions through electron impact, the release of immense energy in nuclear fusion reactions, and the redistribution of energy and momentum through scattering. While physically accurate models exist to describe both collective interactions and binary collisions in plasmas, they are too complex to solve directly. Instead, simplified models have traditionally been used to predict plasma behavior, including nuclear fusion processes. Recent high-performance inertial confinement fusion (ICF) experiments have produced unexpected results that differ from predictions based on these simplified models. This discrepancy suggests that a more precise, high-fidelity kinetic model is needed to fully understand and optimize fusion reactions. This research project aims to develop a novel computational approach that integrates data compression techniques, fast numerical methods, and advanced mathematical modeling to make high-fidelity plasma simulations feasible on modern supercomputers. By applying this new model to experimental data, plasma behavior can be more accurately reproduced, providing insights that could lead to the design of even more efficient ICF devices, and ultimately improving fusion technologies.

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## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2433957
- **Awardee organization:** University of Washington (WA)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** HD1WMN6945W6
- **PI:** Uri Shumlak
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** PLASMA PHYSICS
- **Estimated total:** $500,000
- **Funds obligated:** $500,000
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 07/01/2025 → 06/30/2027

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2433957

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2433957, ACED: Exploring Kinetic Physics in High-Temperature Plasmas via Low-Rank Computing Techniques -- Unraveling Atomic and Nuclear Reactions. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-07 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2433957. Licensed CC0.

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