Compact steady-state and high-flux Falcon ion source for tests of plasma-facing materials

Area of Science:

• Plasma physics
• Fusion energy research
• Materials science

Background:

• Conventional anode layer thrusters are established but can be improved for specific research applications.
• High heat and particle fluxes are critical for simulating fusion reactor conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the design and operation of the novel Falcon ion source.
• To evaluate its suitability for fusion materials research by assessing its performance characteristics.

Main Methods:

• The Falcon ion source is based on conventional anode layer thruster principles.
• A reversed magnetic field configuration is employed for beam focusing and impurity separation.

Main Results:

• The ion source is versatile, compact, affordable, and highly functional.
• It achieves precise ion beam focusing to a small spot (≈3 mm).
• It generates steady-state ion beams with high heat (0.3-21 MW m⁻²) and particle fluxes (4×10²¹-3×10²³ m⁻²s⁻¹), approaching ITER requirements.

Conclusions:

• The Falcon ion source is a valuable tool for fusion materials research.
• Its performance characteristics are well-suited for simulating extreme conditions found in fusion reactors.
• The source's design offers a balance of functionality, cost-effectiveness, and compact size.