Formation of field-reversed-configuration plasma with punctuated-betatron-orbit electrons.
We describe ab initio, self-consistent, 3D, fully electromagnetic numerical simulations of current drive and field-reversed-configuration plasma formation by odd-parity rotating magnetic fields (RMF{o}). Magnetic-separatrix formation and field reversal are attained from an initial mirror configuration. A population of punctuated-betatron-orbit electrons, generated by the RMF{o}, carries the majority of the field-normal azimuthal electrical current responsible for field reversal. Appreciable current and plasma pressure exist outside the magnetic separatrix whose shape is modulated by the RMF{o} phase. The predicted plasma density and electron energy distribution compare favorably with RMF{o} experiments.
Welch
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Voss Scientific, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87108, USA.
Cohen
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Genoni
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Glasser
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