Development of x-ray imaging diagnostics on Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak using Timepix3 detector.

Area of Science:

• Plasma physics
• Nuclear fusion engineering
• Detector physics

Background:

• The Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak (EAST) requires advanced diagnostics for plasma characterization.
• X-ray imaging is crucial for understanding plasma behavior and evolution.
• Existing diagnostic systems may have limitations in temporal and spectral resolution.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and evaluate a novel X-ray imaging diagnostic system utilizing the Timepix3 detector on the EAST.
• To assess the performance parameters of the Timepix3 detector for X-ray measurements in a tokamak environment.
• To demonstrate the system's capability in analyzing temporal and spatial X-ray signal characteristics during plasma discharges.

Main Methods:

• Installation and integration of the Timepix3 detector-based X-ray imaging system on the EAST.
• Characterization of the detector's energy and spatial resolution in counting and time-over-threshold modes.
• Utilizing the event-driven capability for high-temporal-resolution photon detection (1.56 ns).
• Analysis of X-ray signal temporal evolution and spatial distribution during EAST plasma discharges.
• Comparison of Timepix3 detector measurements with conventional diagnostic signals.

Main Results:

• The Timepix3 detector achieved an energy resolution within 5 keV in tested modes.
• The system provides a 16° field of view with 4 mm spatial resolution.
• The detector's event-driven capability enabled precise temporal analysis of X-ray signals.
• Preliminary experimental results confirmed the reliability and accuracy of the Timepix3 diagnostic system.

Conclusions:

• The Timepix3 detector-based X-ray imaging system is a reliable and effective diagnostic tool for EAST.
• The system's high temporal and spectral resolution capabilities enhance plasma discharge analysis.
• This advancement contributes to improved understanding and control of fusion plasmas.