Tangential hard x-ray diagnostic array on the EXL-50 spherical tokamak.

Area of Science:

• Plasma Physics
• Fusion Energy
• X-ray Diagnostics

Background:

• Fast electron generation is crucial in tokamak plasmas, influencing stability and heating.
• Understanding fast electron dynamics is key to advancing magnetic confinement fusion.
• The ENN XuanLong-50 (EXL-50) spherical tokamak requires advanced diagnostics for detailed plasma studies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a novel tangential hard x-ray (HXR) diagnostic system for the EXL-50.
• To enable the study of fast electron emission characteristics.
• To provide data for estimating fast electron temperature and velocity distribution.

Main Methods:

• Installation of a CdZnTe semiconductor detector array with 25 channels.
• Configuration of sight lines for forward, backward, and central fast electron emission.
• Measurement of x-ray spectra within a 20-300 keV range.

Main Results:

• Ten HXR detector channels are currently operational on the EXL-50.
• The system is capable of spectral analysis for fast electron characterization.
• Initial data collection supports the study of electron cyclotron resonance heating effects.

Conclusions:

• The HXR diagnostic system is a valuable tool for EXL-50 plasma research.
• It facilitates a deeper understanding of fast electron behavior and its impact on plasma.
• The diagnostic will contribute to improving plasma instability, transport, and heating efficiency studies.