Study of Self-Generated Counter Current Flow in Tokamak Plasmas with Lower-Hybrid-Driven Current
Authors: Xiaoyin Guan, Hong Qin, Nathaniel J. Fisch and Jian Liu
Abstract:
We present a theoretical explanation for the counter-current flow observed in the Alcator CMod
with Lower Hybrid Current Drive (LHCD). In non-overdrive regime, plasma spins up because
counter-current momentum accumulates in plasma due to the improvement of electron momentum
confinement during the launch of the lower hybrid wave. Simulations studies are carried out by
applying a momentum transport model to the two-fluid equation system. Numerical results are
consistent with experimental data. Co-current flow is predicted to occur in strong overdrive regime.
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Submitted to: Physical Review Letters (November 2011)
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Download PPPL-4704 (pdf 275 KB 11 pp)
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