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Dust in fusion devices—a multi-faceted problem connecting high- and low-temperature plasma physics

J Winter

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Small particles with sizes between a few nanometers and a few 10 µm (dust) are formed in fusion devices by plasma–surface interaction processes. Though it is not a major problem today, dust is considered a problem that could arise in future long pulse fusion devices. This is primarily due to its radioactivity and due to its very high chemical reactivity. Dust formation is particularly pronounced when carbonaceous wall materials are used. Dust particles can be transported in the tokamak over significant distances. Radioactivity leads to electrical charging of dust and to its interaction with plasmas and electric fields. This may cause interference with the discharge but may also result in options for particle removal. This paper discusses some of the multi-faceted problems using information both from fusion research and from low-temperature dusty plasma work.


PACS

52.27.Lw Dusty or complex plasmas; plasma crystals

52.40.Hf Plasma-material interactions; boundary layer effects

28.52.-s Fusion reactors

52.55.Fa Tokamaks, spherical tokamaks

Subjects

Nuclear physics

Plasma physics

Dates

Issue 12B (December 2004)

Received 2 July 2004

Published 17 November 2004



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