Simulation of Wave-Plasma Interaction and Extended MHD in Fusion Systems

Unstable plasma motions can degrade plasma containment or even terminate the plasma discharge, with the potential for damage to the containment device. These instabilities can be modeled using extended magnetohydrodynamics. High-power radio frequency (RF) electromagnetic waves can be used to influence plasma stability — sometimes producing instability, and sometimes reducing or eliminating instability.

The purpose of this project is to advance understanding and predicting the effects of RF waves on plasma stability. This understanding is of significant scientific and economic benefit, with a direct benefit to the international ITER project in the prediction and control of the macroscopic stability of the ITER plasma and in the design and application of heating and current drive systems.