High Performance Scenarios for a Fusion Pilot Plant by Integrated Modeling

The success of the physics design of a fusion pilot plant (FPP) relies heavily on comprehensive and integrated modeling to predict plasma performance. In this study, we utilize OMFIT-STEP, a core-pedestal modeling tool [1] which has been validated against a variety of experimental plasmas [2], to determine high-performance scenarios for a future FPP. This workflow couples theory-based codes to predict self-consistent plasma transport, equilibrium, current drive and heating, and pedestal structure. The computation starts from plasma parameters predicted by GA’s proprietary framework for FPP integrated design, the FUsion Synthesis Engine (FUSE) [3]. Inductive and steady-state operating points based on the high scenario are studied and refined via scans in electron cyclotron current drive and pedestal density. A high β_p scenario shows a promising path towards FPP: (1) it is able to generate sufficient bootstrap current for steady-state operation; (2) turbulence suppression is enhanced by the combination of the high alpha stability effect, optimized impurity seeding, and pressure-gradient driven E×B shear. Self-consistent solutions show that this approach achieves a sustainable, high-confinement plasma that meets the FPP goals of net electricity generation in a compact device.



Work supported by General Atomics corporate funding.

[1] O. Meneghini et al., Nucl. Fusion 61 (2021) 026006

[2] B. Lyons et al., Physics of Plasma (2023) submitted

[3] O. Meneghini et al., this conference