Microinstability simulations for stellarators involving kinetic electrons and realistic profiles. (1st October 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Riemann, J; Kleiber, R; Borchardt, M; Slaby, C
• Is Part Of: Plasma physics and controlled fusion. Volume 64:Number 10(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-10-01
• Subjects: stellarators -- microinstability simulations -- gyrokinetics -- kinetic electrons -- Wendelstein 7-X -- gradient scans; Plasma (Ionized gases) -- Periodicals; Controlled fusion -- Periodicals; 530.44
• DOI: 10.1088/1361-6587/ac89ef
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0741-3335

Abstract

Abstract: In this work, linear simulation results obtained with the global particle-in-cell code EUTERPE are applied to plasmas with both adiabatic and kinetic electrons in a Wendelstein 7-X magnetic configuration. Special attention is paid to challenges arising from the need to design realistic and consistent gradient scans on realistic profiles used in global simulations. Results obtained in a pressure-preserving gradient scan performed with kinetic electrons suggest a strong impact of a finite density gradient on the growth of electron-driven instabilities below the ion-temperature-gradient stability limit. Power transfer diagnostics are used to identify the nature of the coexisting driving mechanisms.