TJ-II:Understanding an often observed transient rise in core electron temperature during pellet injection into TJ-II plasmas: Difference between revisions

A short-lived (≤200 μs) transient rise of core electron temperature has often been observed before an injected pellet is completely ablated by the TJ-II plasma. It is detected by both the Thomson Scattering and Electron Cyclotron Emission diagnostic systems and when observed, this core temperature rise begins within ~100 μs after a pellet enters the plasma through the last-closed magnetic flux surface, as it is approaches the plasma core. Such behaviour occurs in plasmas maintained by either on- or off-axis electron cyclotron resonance heating. It is postulated that a steepening of the radial temperature gradient leads to a more positive radial electric field in the core so that the plasma moves deeper in Core Electron Root Confinement. The resultant improved confinement of injected heating power then leads to the raised core temperature. Conversely, it is observed that, when a pellet is injected into plasma with a peaked core electron temperature profile, the recovery time for core temperatures is significantly longer than for edge temperatures. Given the possible implications for pellet penetration and particle deposition, it is intended to make a systematic study by injecting pellets in plasmas in which such a core temperature rise is observed and using the TS diagnostic to understand the influence of the temperature gradient.