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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