Performance evaluation of a permanent ring magnet based helicon plasma source for negative ion source research

Area of Science:

• Plasma Physics
• Fusion Energy Research

Background:

• Helicon wave heating offers high ionization efficiency per unit power.
• Developing efficient plasma sources is crucial for fusion energy and industrial applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present the development and characterization of a compact, permanent magnet-based helicon wave plasma source.
• To investigate the HELicon Experiment for Negative ion-I source (HELN-I) for future large-scale negative hydrogen ion sources.

Main Methods:

• Optimized geometry, RF power frequency (13.56 MHz), and magnetic field conditions.
• Conducted parametric studies in argon plasma at varying pressures and magnetic fields.
• Developed a theoretical model for particle and power balance.

Main Results:

• A compact helicon plasma source was successfully developed and characterized.
• Parametric studies provided insights into plasma behavior under different conditions.
• A theoretical model for particle and power balance was established.

Conclusions:

• The developed helicon plasma source demonstrates efficient ionization.
• The HELN-I source is a promising step towards advanced negative hydrogen ion sources.
• Further studies will include ambipolar diffusion in magnetized helicon plasmas.