Edge profile measurements using Thomson scattering on the KSTAR tokamak

Area of Science:

• Plasma physics
• Fusion energy research
• Diagnostic systems

Background:

• The KSTAR Tokamak requires accurate measurements of electron density and temperature profiles for fusion energy research.
• Existing diagnostic systems have limitations in spatial resolution for critical measurements like pedestal width.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the Tangential Thomson Scattering (TTS) diagnostic system installed on the KSTAR Tokamak.
• To present and compare edge electron density and temperature profiles measured by TTS with other KSTAR diagnostics.
• To discuss future upgrades for enhanced measurement capabilities.

Main Methods:

• Installation and utilization of a Tangential Thomson Scattering (TTS) diagnostic system.
• Employing 12 optical fiber bundles for edge profile measurements with 10-15 mm spatial resolution.
• Comparison of TTS data with KSTAR Charge Exchange Spectroscopy and other diagnostic measurements.

Main Results:

• The KSTAR TTS system provides electron density and temperature profiles, enabling observations of L-H and H-L transitions.
• While current spatial resolution is insufficient for high-accuracy pedestal width measurements, it allows for edge plasma characterization.
• Initial comparisons show consistency between TTS data and other KSTAR diagnostics.

Conclusions:

• The KSTAR TTS system is a valuable tool for studying edge plasma dynamics and transitions.
• Future upgrades are planned to improve spatial resolution and enhance measurement accuracy, particularly for pedestal physics.
• The system's performance and data are crucial for advancing fusion energy research at KSTAR.