Formation of target Field-Reversed Configuration plasma for Magnetized Target Fusion in FRX-L
Abstract
An Field-Reversed Configuration plasma is chosen as a candidate target to be translated into a metal liner for implosion using Magnetized Target Fusion scenario. The scheme naturally requires the target FRC plasma to be reliably formed on every shot. Field reversed theta pinch method with programmed end cusp coils to help realize non-tearing reconnection techniques is employed to form the FRC plasma in the desired density regime. In FRX-L(θ-coil L=36cm, quartz tube I.D. 10.6cm, B_e ∼30kG, net B_i ∼2kG, and static D2 fill P0 ∼50 mTorr), it is found that the timing of the main bank reversed field with respect to the ringing cycles of preionization phases plays a crucial role in forming highly reproducible FRC plasmas, when other factors such as end cusp locations, impurities in the preionization plasma are suitably controlled. The well formed FRC plasma has volume-averaged density of ∼2.5*10^22m-3, T_e+T_i ∼300eV, average β ∼0.90, x_s ∼0.45, r_s ∼3.0cm during equilibrium phase, and plasma lifetime is ∼15-20 μs. Supported by DOE-OFES Contract No. W-7405-ENG-36.
- Publication:
-
APS Division of Plasma Physics Meeting Abstracts
- Pub Date:
- November 2004
- Bibcode:
- 2004APS..DPPHP1035Z