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Hot electron stabilization of a helically symmetric plasma

Journal Article · · Phys. Fluids; (United States)
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1063/1.865865· OSTI ID:5922262

Furth and Boozer (private communication; Proceedings of the Advanced Bumpy Torus Concepts Workshop, CONF-830758, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tennessee, 1983, p. 161) have suggested the use of relativistic electrons to achieve the second stability regime in a helical axis stellarator (Heliac). The hot electrons would only be required until the background plasma reached the second stability regime; the heating power maintaining the hot electron layer would then be turned off. The basic correctness of Furth and Boozer's suggestion is confirmed numerically by a localized stability analysis of helically symmetric plasma equilibria, with anisotropic pressure profiles. Stability is evaluated using the localized interchange criterion in which the hot electrons, because of their large drift speeds, are treated as rigid. A hot electron pressure profile is exhibited; it provides a stable path to the second stability regime for the background plasma.

Research Organization:
AMPC, Inc., 2210-P Encinitas Boulevard, Encinitas, California 92024
DOE Contract Number:
AC03-83ER80102
OSTI ID:
5922262
Journal Information:
Phys. Fluids; (United States), Journal Name: Phys. Fluids; (United States) Vol. 29:4; ISSN PFLDA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English