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Updated: Jun 7, 2026

The Frequency Domain Thermoreflectance Technique for Thermal Property Measurements
Published on: December 5, 2025
Optimization studies of the ITER low field side reflectometer.
S J Diem1, J B Wilgen, T S Bigelow
1Oak Ridge National Laboratory, P.O. Box 2008, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37831-6169, USA. diemsj@ornl.gov
Microwave reflectometry on ITER will monitor plasma density, turbulence, and transitions using O-mode and X-mode systems. This advanced diagnostic system is crucial for understanding fusion plasma behavior and optimizing reactor performance.
Area of Science:
- Plasma Physics
- Fusion Energy
- Diagnostic Techniques
Background:
- ITER requires advanced diagnostics for real-time plasma monitoring.
- Microwave reflectometry is a key technique for measuring electron density profiles and fluctuations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To detail the design and optimization of the ITER microwave reflectometry system.
- To outline its capabilities for measuring core and edge plasma parameters.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing O-mode (15-155 GHz) and X-mode (55-220 GHz) reflectometry systems.
- Employing HE11 mode launchers with Gaussian beam propagation assumptions.
- Conducting optimization studies with the GENRAY ray-tracing code for antenna coupling.
Main Results:
- Defined frequency ranges for core and edge measurements.
- Investigated optimum launcher size and placement for effective coupling.
- Established the system's capability for measuring density profiles, fluctuations, ELM transients, and L-H transitions.
Conclusions:
- The ITER reflectometry system is designed for comprehensive plasma diagnostics.
- Optimization studies ensure effective measurement of critical plasma parameters.
- This system is vital for ITER's operational success and fusion energy research.
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