Hyper-Velocity High-Density C60-Fullerene Plasma Jet for Disruption Mitigation

Hyper-velocity and high-density plasma jets have important applications in magnetic fusion research. Although disruption mitigation represents one particular application of these jets, no suitable tool has been developed and tested in a poof-of-principle experiment. This project will develop a tool for the investigation, design, and optimization of high-velocity and high-density plasma jets that are accelerated in a plasma gun for plasma disruption mitigation. Phase I will involve the analysis of physics problems associated with (1) plasma jet mass production in a pulsed composite source, (2) acceleration in a plasma gun, and (2) transport and penetration in magnetized plasmas. Semi-analytical physical models will be utilized for this purpose. Feasibility then will be evaluated in a proof-of-principle experiment on the DIII-D tokamak. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: The tool for disruption mitigation of fusion plasmas also should be useful to space science and technology, defense, and other applications that use plasma jets.