Quasilinear modelling of RMP interaction with a tokamak plasma: application to ASDEX Upgrade ELM mitigation experiments

First experiments on edge-localized mode (ELM) mitigation with the help of ITER-like coils on ASDEX Upgrade are analysed using linear and quasilinear kinetic models to describe the interaction of resonant magnetic field perturbations (RMP) with the plasma. The gyrokinetic derivation of RMP-driven transport coefficients is given in detail. The role of fluid resonances is studied, in particular the role of the resonance associated with the equilibrium electric field reversal point Er = 0. Like the electron fluid resonance associated with the zero of the total perpendicular electron fluid velocity, the Er = 0 resonance may lead to enhanced transport due to the reduction of RMP shielding in the pedestal region where the RMP field can even be amplified by this resonance. The conditions on the RMP coil spectrum resulting from the analysis are discussed. (paper)