Hybrid Illinois Device for Research and Applications Material Analysis Test-stand (HIDRA-MAT)

HIDRA is a toroidal plasma fusion device located at UIUC. Steady state plasmas and high particle fluxes on the order of 10$^{\mathrm{22}}$ m$^{\mathrm{-2}}$s$^{\mathrm{-1}}$ provide a unique test-bed for materials research. HIDRA-MAT is an extension of HIDRA that acts as a material test-stand capable of performing plasma exposure and surface characterization \textit{in-vacuo}. Removing the material surface degradation that occurs from oxidation when exposed to atmosphere produces data that more accurately depicts the PMI mechanisms taking place. HIDRA-MAT's material preparation systems include a rotatable UHV sample heater and liquid metal (LM) droplet injector. Sample surface characterization in-between and after plasma exposures is achieved by dual-pulsed LIBS and TDS. In addition to the surface characterization diagnostics, HIDRA-MAT's dual RGA system allows for deuterium and helium differentiation. Preliminary testing of each of HIDRA-MAT's sample preparation systems and diagnostics have been conducted. LM droplet size and sample temperature can be controlled during application. Results will be shown that highlight HIDRA-MAT's ability to investigate PMI mechanisms associated with LM PFCs retention of deuterium and helium.