<ul><li>Zap Energy has created a new device for fusion power known as sheared-flow-stabilized Z-pinch.</li><li>With a $130m Series D fundraise, the startup recently gave TechCrunch an insight into its Century prototype.</li><li>The device sends a bolt of electricity through a plasma stream, rather than a laser or magnet.</li><li>The company has previously studied the phenomenon through a series of devices at its facilities in Washington.</li><li>The company’s commercial-scale module, which should produce 50-megawatts of electricity, will occupy a similar footprint.</li><li>The prototype needs to hit three milestones to remain on track to a commercial power output.</li><li>First, Zap needs to generate high-voltage pulses frequently and continuously.</li><li>Next, it needs to demonstrate the technology for the US Department of Energy.</li><li>Lastly, the company needs to ensure that its electrodes can withstand the heat and particles unleashed by each fusion reaction.</li><li>Century has already fired 1,080 consecutive pulses in its initial tests.</li></ul>

Zap Energy shows off its new fusion power prototype, Century

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