Modeling and Design Tools for Heterogeneous Photonic Integrated Circuits

65128 Free surface liquid metals are being investigated as heat removal surfaces in fusion reactors. This project will develop non-invasive diagnostics to study the flow characteristics of these systems, (including film thickness distribution, velocity distribution, and fluctuations). The measurement will be non-intrusive and use frequency modulated Doppler laser radar. An infrared laser beam will be reflected off the liquid surface through a vacuum window in the fusion chamber to conduct the measurements. The free surface flow diagnostic device will be designed to operate in the fusion environment that involves high magnetic field, high temperature, vacuum, and electromagnetic interference. In Phase I, feasibility study of the concept will be carried out, taking into account the complications introduced by the fusion environment. A conceptual design of the complete diagnostic system will be developed. Commercial Applications And Other Benefits as described by awardee: The diagnostic system should be useful for the non-intrusive precision measurement of range, velocity, and surface features of all surfaces, including surfaces with low (1%) reflectivity. It also should have applicability to moving surfaces like free surface liquid metal flows as well as to stationary surfaces.