This paper provides a comprehensive review of the development, current status and future prospects of Tokamak-type nuclear fusion devices in the world. First, it expounds the advantages of fusion energy compared with other energy sources, such as its high safety, abundant fuel reserves, high energy density, no greenhouse gas emissions like carbon dioxide and environmental friendliness. Subsequently, it focuses on reviewing the historical development of the Tokamak, from the concept's inception in the 1950s to the current construction of the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER). It highlights the renowned tokamak devices that have made significant influential achievements and critical technological breakthroughs in the world, such as those that have validated the scientific feasibility of controlled nuclear fusion, achieved the highest fusion energy gain (Q), set world records for plasma triple products, reached the highest plasma temperatures, or revealed important physical phenomena, mechanisms, and new or advanced operation modes. Next, the paper also examines the critical scientific and technological challenges yet to be resolved for Tokamak fusion reactors, such as fuel cycles, tritium self - sufficiency, and materials issues. Finally, it offers perspectives on the future development direction of Tokamak fusion reactors and the commercialization prospects of fusion energy. This review aims to serve as a reference for the field of nuclear fusion research.

tokamak  /  nuclear fusion  /  fusion energy  /  fusion reactor  /  plasma  /  superconductivity