The flexible linear plasma experiment FLIPS

A new plasma experiment is currently being built up. The linear device is characterised by its high flexibility. The confinement of the plasma is enhanced by permanent magnets which are arranged in a so-called full-line cusp configuration.

Stage 1

In the first stage the experiment will be used as a double-plasma device. The quiescent plasma is ideally suited for the investigation of the plasma sheath, ion waves, shocks and solitons.

Stage 2

In the second stage, the 6 magnetic field coils (in blue) will be used to produce a homogeneous axial magnetic field of up to 0.2 T. The double-plasma arrangement will be removed and a novel antenna technique for 2.45 GHz microwaves will be used to couple the wave into the vacuum vessel. The microwave will heat the plasma resonantly in the magnetic multipol field and enhance the plasma parameters.

Stage 3

Finally, large flanges on the end ports allow to connect the device with two high-field segments available at IPF. This leads to a magnetic mirror configuration with a mirror ratio of 1.0 T/0.2 T. Heating will then also be done by axially launched microwaves.

Mirko Ramisch

Dr.

Head of Plasma Dynamics and Diagnostics / Library officer

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