Fusion Science and Technology / Volume 13 / Number 3 / March 1988 / Pages 411-422
Technical Paper / Alpha-Particle Workshop / Alpha Workshop / dx.doi.org/10.13182/FST88-A25117
Articles are hosted by Taylor and Francis Online.
The effect of fast alpha diffusion and thermal alpha accumulation on the confinement capability of a candidate Engineering Test Reactor plasma (Tokamak Ignition/Burn Experimental Reactor) in achieving ignition and steady-state driven operation has been assessed using both global and 1½-dimensional transport models. Estimates are made of the threshold for radial diffusion of fast alphas and thermal alpha buildup. It is shown that a relatively low level of radial transport, when combined with large gradients in the fast alpha density, leads to a significant radial flow with a deleterious effect on plasma performance. Similarly, modest levels of thermal alpha concentration significantly influence the ignition and steady-state burn capability.