Spillover benefits from controlled nuclear fusion technology - A patent analysis

Abstract The patenting activity in the field of controlled nuclear fusion was investigated to assess the role of this emerging technology as a catalyst for inventions in other technological areas. Patent statistical data allows to track not only the evolution of a technology, but also to analyze cross-fertilizing effects of a technology that is not quite ready for implementation. Spillovers from nuclear fusion research for applicable inventions to other technological areas can be identified.