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Neutral particle analyzer for plasma diagnostics on tokamak ST40
S Polosatkin1,2,3, V Belykh1, A Rovenskikh1
1Budker Institute of Nuclear Physics, Lavrent'eva Av. 11, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia.
The Review of Scientific Instruments
|October 13, 2025
Summary
A new neutral particle analyzer was developed for the ST40 spherical tokamak, enabling precise measurements of bulk ion temperature and fast ion energy distributions. This diagnostic tool enhances plasma research by offering high temporal resolution and isotope separation capabilities.
Area of Science:
- Plasma Physics
- Fusion Energy Research
- Tokamak Diagnostics
Background:
- Spherical tokamaks require advanced diagnostics for accurate plasma characterization.
- Measuring bulk ion temperature and fast ion energy distribution is crucial for understanding plasma confinement and stability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To design and implement a neutral particle analyzer (NPA) for the ST40 spherical tokamak.
- To measure bulk ion temperature (0.5-10 keV) and fast ion energy distribution (up to 40 keV).
Main Methods:
- Design and implementation of a novel neutral particle analyzer.
- Utilizing an integrated calibration ion source for monitoring and calibration.
- Developing procedures for determining instrumental functions and reconstructing plasma ion temperature.
Main Results:
- The NPA successfully measures ion temperatures and fast ion energy distributions in the ST40.
- Key features include hydrogen isotope separation, sub-millisecond temporal resolution, and a low ion temperature threshold.
- Instrumental functions and temperature reconstruction methods were validated.
Conclusions:
- The developed NPA is a valuable tool for ST40 plasma diagnostics.
- The diagnostic provides critical data for fusion energy research.
- The system's capabilities enhance the understanding of plasma behavior in tokamaks.
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