Helicon normal modes in Proto-MPEX

P. A. Piotrowicz, J. F. Caneses, D. L. Green, R. H. Goulding, C. Lau, J. B.O. Caughman, J. Rapp, D. N. Ruzic

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

The Proto-MPEX helicon source has been operating in a high electron density 'helicon-mode'. Establishing plasma densities and magnetic field strengths under the antenna that allow for the formation of normal modes of the fast-wave are believed to be responsible for the 'helicon-mode'. A 2D finite-element full-wave model of the helicon antenna on Proto-MPEX is used to identify the fast-wave normal modes responsible for the steady-state electron density profile produced by the source. We also show through the simulation that in the regions of operation in which core power deposition is maximum the slow-wave does not deposit significant power besides directly under the antenna. In the case of a simulation where a normal mode is not excited significant edge power is deposited in the mirror region.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Article number055016
JournalPlasma Sources Science and Technology
Volume27
Issue number5
DOIs
StatePublished - May 22 2018

Keywords

  • MPEX
  • deuterium
  • full wave simulation
  • helicon source
  • plasma source
  • plasma waves

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Condensed Matter Physics

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