Project Details
Projekt
Dynamics of density fluctuations and impact of flow on turbulence saturation in magnetized plasmas
Subject Area
Optics, Quantum Optics and Physics of Atoms, Molecules and Plasmas
Term
since 2025
Project identifier
Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 568984245
Particles and heat transport play the central role for the realization of a fusion reactor based on magnetically confined plasma, and are determined by plasma turbulence. The turbulence is regulated by flows. The turbulence is not as pronounced as in neutral fluids and exhibits properties of driving instability. One of these properties is the phase velocity. Reflectrometry measurements form the backbone of the determination of background flow and phase velocity of turbulent fluctuations. However, reflectometry measures both in combination and interpretation is difficult unless one of the two velocities dominates. This has led to discussions about the interpretation of these measurements for years. In this project we want to understand how the linear property of the phase velocity behaves nonlinearly, i.e. under turbulent conditions. To this end, we have assembled a broad team of experimental physicists and modelers. Data will be collected at the WEST tokamak in France and the Wendelstein 7-X stellarator in Germany. A new reflectometry system will be set up at WEST and a similar one at W7-X will be modified. This allows for good comparability of measurements in two very different fusion-relevant cutting-edge research experiments. The aim is to achieve a deeper understanding of these measurements, which are highly relevant for fusion research.
DFG Programme
Research Grants
International Connection
France
Co-Investigator
Professor Dr. Günter Tovar
Cooperation Partners
Dr. Roland Sabot; Dr. Laure Vermare
