A point plasma model for linear plasma devices based on SOLPS-ITER equations: application to helium plasma

Abstract

Linear plasma devices represent an essential tool for nuclear fusion research, whereby understanding crucial aspects related to plasma-wall interactions or edge plasma behaviour. Simplified models are of great importance to complement and integrate experimental and simulation results of complex systems such as plasmas in linear machines, because they are fast and simple to employ. In this work, we present a global volume-averaged (0D) model for plasma investigation in linear machines. The 0D model equations are based on the space integration of the state of the art edge plasma model implemented in the SOLPS-ITER code. Comparisons between helium plasmas described with 2D simulations performed with SOLPS-ITER and with the 0D model highlight that contributions often neglected in tokamak edge models, e.g. electron-neutral excitation, may be relevant when describing weakly ionized plasmas in linear devices. The model is used to perform sensitivity studies with respect to several parameters and to analyse the time evolution of the system, leading to the identification of two relevant time scales governing the system. Lastly, a comparison of 0D results with experimental data from the linear device GyM is performed, showing satisfactory agreement. Our methods and results provide crucial interpretative keys in the investigation of the physics of edge plasmas.