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Studies on Density Dependence of Charge Separation in a Direct Energy Converter Using Slanted Cusp Magnetic Field

Yoshiro MUNAKATA, Takashi KAWAGUCHI, Hiromasa TAKENO, Yasuyoshi YASAKA, Kazuya ICHIMURA¹⁾ and Yousuke NAKASHIMA¹⁾

Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Kobe University, 1-1 Rokkodai, Nada, Kobe 657-8501, Japan

1)

Plasma Research Center, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba 305-8577, Japan

(Received 9 December 2011 / Accepted 18 April 2012 / Published 26 July 2012)

Abstract

In an advanced fusion, fusion-produced charged particles must be separated from each other for efficient energy conversion to electricity. The CuspDEC performs this function of separation and direct energy conversion. Analysis of working characteristics of CuspDEC on plasma density is an important subject. This paper summarizes and discusses experimental and theoretical works for high density plasma by using a small scale experimental device employing a slanted cusp magnetic field. When the incident plasma is low-density, good separation of the charged particles can be accomplished and this is explained by the theory based on a single particle motion. In high density plasma, however, this theory cannot be always applied due to space charge effects. In the experiment, as gradient of the field line increases, separation capability of the charged particles becomes higher. As plasma density becomes higher, however, separation capability becomes lower. This can be qualitatively explained by using calculations of the modified Störmer potential including space charge potential.

Copyright (c) 2012 The Japan Society of Plasma Science and Nuclear Fusion Research

Keywords

advanced fusion, direct energy conversion, CuspDEC, charge separation, slanted cusp magnetic field, plasma density

DOI: 10.1585/pfr.7.2405071

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References

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This paper may be cited as follows:

Yoshiro MUNAKATA, Takashi KAWAGUCHI, Hiromasa TAKENO, Yasuyoshi YASAKA, Kazuya ICHIMURA and Yousuke NAKASHIMA, Plasma Fusion Res. 7, 2405071 (2012).