64th Annual STS (2004-2005)
Finalists
Bruce Xiangji Brewington

NEW YORK
Bruce Xiangji Brewington, 17, of Fairport, focused on laser fusion research for his Intel Science Talent Search project in physics. Bruce developed a complex computer program that solved an intriguing problem: how to locate and characterize defects in cryogenic laser fusion targets used in inertial confinement fusion, a technique being explored as a future option for power generation. Cryogenic targets are thin plastic shells (1 mm diameter) surrounding layers of deuterium (heavy hydrogen) ice. The more uniform and defect-free these layers are, the better the fusion performance. Shadowgraphs, however, often show defects with origins which are not understood because - until Bruce's program was developed - their locations were unknown. His program typically analyzes 50 shadowgraphs viewed from different directions, uses a new algorithm to combine information and creates a 3-D model showing locations, sizes and shapes of imperfections, which should ultimately lead to defect-free particles. Bruce is active in the math club at Fairport High School and has participated in Magic: The Gathering tournaments. He hopes to attend MIT and is the son of Robert and Dr. Grace Brewington.