Novel Diagnostic Probe for Runaway Electron Beam-Plasma Interaction

High-velocity high-density/mass plasma jets have important applications in magnetic fusion research for disruption mitigation, fueling, and driving plasma rotation. The essential potential of such a plasma jet as diagnostic probe for runaway electron (RE) beam-plasma interaction has been envisioned, but no suitable device has been developed and tested in a poof-of-principle experiment. Such a diagnostic probe will be of great benefit for developing a reliable, real-time technique for REs suppression/dissipation, a critical need for fusion reactors like the International Thermonuclear Nuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER). Statement of how this problem is being addressed: FAR-TECH, Inc. proposes to provide a diagnostic probe for runaway electron beam-plasma interaction using a novel prototype system producing a high-velocity and high-density/mass C60/C plasma jet, accelerated in a plasma gun. The objectives are a first test bed demonstration of penetration through transverse magnetic field and then a proof-of-principle experiment on a large tokamak. What is to be done in Phase I? During Phase I we will investigate the feasibility, from the view point of the key physics issues involved, of the C60/C nanoparticle plasma jet injection into the disrupting target plasma carrying REs and confined by the tokamak magnetic field, for spectroscopy-based RE beam-plasma interaction. We will use semi-analytical physical models and computer code simulations. We will set firm grounds for a practical diagnostic device supporting the development of the disruption mitigation system for ITER. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits: Plasma jets have many applications in the following areas of fusion plasmas: mitigation of plasma disruptions, core fueling for burning plasma, liner-compressed magnetized target fusion, and driving plasma rotation for improved stability. Thus our tool will have direct impact to the fusion community. The technology and tool developed for diagnostics of runaway electrons and disruption mitigation can be useful to impulse plasma deposition for coatinga, space science and technology, biomedicine, defense and in commercial sectors where application of nanoparticle plasma jets is pursued. Key Words: Active/passive diagnostic probe, collisional suppression of runaway electrons, high-velocity plasma jet, nanoparticles, disruption mitigation, tokamak plasma