Novel SOLPS-ITER simulations of X-point target and snowflake divertors. (1st March 2023)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Cowley, C; Kuang, A Q; Moulton, D; Lore, J D; Canik, J; Umansky, M; Wigram, M; Ballinger, S; Lipschultz, B; Bonnin, X
• Is Part Of: Plasma physics and controlled fusion. Volume 65:Number 3(2023)
• Publication Date: 2023-03-01
• Subjects: X-point target -- snowflake -- divertor -- SOLPS -- simulation -- advanced divertor -- SOLPS-ITER; Plasma (Ionized gases) -- Periodicals; Controlled fusion -- Periodicals; 530.44
• DOI: 10.1088/1361-6587/acb4ba
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0741-3335

Abstract

Abstract: The design and understanding of alternative divertor configurations may be crucial for achieving acceptable steady-state heat and particle material loads for magnetic confinement fusion reactors. Multiple X-point alternative divertor geometries such as snowflakes and X-point targets have great potential in reducing power loads, but have not yet been simulated widely in codes with kinetic neutrals. This paper discusses recent changes made to the SOLPS-ITER code to allow for the simulation of X-point target and low-field side snowflake divertor geometries. Snowflake simulations using this method are presented, in addition to the first SOLPS-ITER simulation of the X-point target. Analysis of these results show reasonable consistency with the simple modelling and theoretical predictions, supporting the validity of the methodology implemented.