Magnum-psi, a new linear plasma generator for plasma-surface interaction studies in ITER relevant conditions

The Magnum-psi project (magnetised plasma generator and numerical modelling for plasma-surface interaction) aims at the fundamental study of plasma-surface interaction processes in conditions relevant to the ITER divertor. A linear plasma generator has been constructed in which a hydrogen ion flux of 1023 particles/m2 s to a surface can be realised, at a temperature of around 1 eV. A longitudinal magnetic field of <1.6 T is used to confine the plasma. This produces a narrow plasma beam, with a sustained high ionisation degree over a length of 1 m. To closer approach the ITER divertor conditions, a larger version of the Magnum-psi device is planned, with a permanent magnetic field <3 T, a beam diameter of >10 cm and a controlled temperature in the range 0.1–10 eV.