Abstract
A new concept of steady-state scenario for tokamak reactors is proposed.
It is based on cyclic operations, alternating phases of positive and
negative loop voltage with no magnetic flux consumption on average.
Localized non-inductive current drive by electron cyclotron waves is
used to trigger and sustain an internal transport barrier (ITB), whereas
neutral beam current drive is used to periodically recharge the tokamak
transformer. The fact of operating in cycles relaxes the hard constraint
of simultaneous fusion performance maximization and full non-inductive
operation, within the MHD stability limits. Integrated modelling
simulations are performed to apply this concept for the ITER
steady-state regime. A linear MHD analysis of the instabilities that
could appear in this type of scenario is performed, showing that MHD
stability would be strongly improved with respect to a steady regime
with a strong ITB.
Original language | English |
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Article number | 025025 |
Number of pages | 10 |
Journal | Nuclear Fusion |
Volume | 50 |
Issue number | 2 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 1 Feb 2010 |
Externally published | Yes |