PPPL-4822

Use of Polycarbonate Vacuum Vessels in High-Temperature Fusion-Plasma Research

Authors: B. Berlinger, A. Brooks, H. Feder, J. Gumbas, T. Franckowiak and S.A. Cohen

Abstract:
Magnetic fusion energy (MFE) research requires ultrahigh-vacuum (UHV) conditions, primarily to reduce plasma contamination by impurities. For radiofrequency (RF)-heated plasmas, a great benefit may accrue from a non-conducting vacuum vessel, allowing external RF antennas which avoids the complications and cost of internal antennas and high-voltage high-current feedthroughs. In this paper we describe these and other criteria, e.g., safety, availability, design flexibility, structural integrity, access, outgassing, transparency, and fabrication techniques that led to the selection and use of 25.4-cm OD, 1.6-cm wall polycarbonate pipe as the main vacuum vessel for an MFE research device whose plasmas are expected to reach keV energies for durations exceeding 0.1 s.
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Submitted to: Trans America Nuclear Soc (Aug.30.2012) Presented at: ANS Fusion Science and Technology and TOFE Conference, Nashville, TN (Aug 27-31, 2012)

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Download PPPL-4822 (pdf 1.97 MB 5 pp)
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