Published April 25, 2003 | Version v1
Journal article

Controlled optimization of mode conversion from electron Bernstein waves to extraordinary mode in magnetized plasma

  • 1. Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey 08543 (United States)
  • 2. Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37831 (United States)
  • 3. Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033 (Japan)
  • 4. Plasma Science and Fusion Center, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139 (United States)

Description

In the CDX-U spherical torus, agreement between radiation temperature and Thomson scattering electron temperature profiles indicates ∼100% conversion of thermally emitted electron Bernstein waves to the X mode. This has been achieved by controlling the electron density scale length (Ln) in the conversion region with a local limiter outside the last closed flux surface, shortening Ln to the theoretically required value for optimal conversion. From symmetry of the conversion process, prospects for efficient coupling in heating and current drive scenarios are strongly supported

Additional details

Publishing Information

Journal Title
Physical Review Letters
Journal Volume
90
Journal Issue
16
Journal Page Range
p. 165001-165001.4
ISSN
0031-9007
CODEN
PRLTAO

Optional Information

Notes
(c) 2003 The American Physical Society