Low-Impurity, Electrode-less Plasma Source for Fusion Applications

Eagle Harbor Technologies, in collaboration with the University of Washington, has developed a low-impurity, electrode-less plasma source (EPS) for start-up and source plasma injection for fusion science applications.~ In order to not interfere with the experiment, a pre-ionizer/plasma source must meet a few critical criteria including low impurity production, low electromagnetic interference (EMI), and minimal disruption to the magnetic geometry of the experiment.~ Two versions of the EPS have been created: a high particle flux device and a low magnetic flux device. ~Both versions were designed to be bakable and UHV compatable. Here we show the results from the Phase I program, including device construction and integration, plasma properties, and preliminary impurity studies.~ In addition, we discuss the Phase II work plan, which includes more extensive impurity studies.