Realization of thousand-second improved confinement plasma with Super I-mode in Tokamak EAST

Area of Science:

• Nuclear Fusion Energy
• Plasma Physics
• Tokamak Technology

Background:

• Controlled nuclear fusion offers abundant, safe, and clean energy.
• Achieving stable, long-duration plasma confinement in tokamaks is a significant challenge.
• The Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak (EAST) is a leading facility for fusion research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate a high-performance, steady-state, long-pulse plasma regime in a tokamak.
• To investigate and control plasma density and heat flux.
• To discover and validate novel high-confinement plasma modes.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak (EAST).
• Focused on achieving steady-state plasma operation.
• Controlled plasma density and divertor peak heat flux.
• Investigated plasma confinement and impurity accumulation.

Main Results:

• Achieved a world-record steady-state plasma pulse length of 1056 seconds.
• Successfully controlled plasma density and divertor peak heat flux.
• Demonstrated no core impurity accumulation.
• Discovered and validated a new high-confinement, self-organizing plasma regime (Super I-mode).

Conclusions:

• EAST has made a significant breakthrough in steady-state fusion plasma operation.
• The Super I-mode regime shows promise for future fusion devices.
• These advancements are crucial for integrating fusion technology and physics for next-step fusion reactors.