Spatially resolved measurements of electron density of a magnetically confined split-ring resonator source

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Laser-collisional induced fluorescence is used to study the plasma generated by a split-ring resonator discharge under an external cusp shaped magnetic field created by permanent magnets. The electron density and electron temperature are measured for a helium plasma at different pressures, powers, and magnet field strengths. It is found that the magnetic fields produce higher electron temperatures with peak temperatures of ∼3 eV, while the no magnet case has peak temperatures of ∼0.8 eV. Conversely, the peak electron density is obtained in the no magnet case at a value of ∼1.9 × 1011 cm−3. This indicates that the cusp-field did magnetize the electrons, but contrary to expectations, it resulted in a decrease in electron density. This is believed to be due to the magnetic field having negative effects on the resonance of the plasma source.

Source: Physics of Plasmas

DOI: 10.1063/5.0215171

Authors: Andrew T. Walsten, Brian Z. Bentz, Kevin Youngman, Kunning G. Xu

Institutions: Sandia National Laboratories, University of Alabama in Huntsville

Language: English

Topic: Plasma Diagnostics and Applications

Subfield: Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Funders: National Science Foundation, U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Science, National Nuclear Security Administration, Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, Fusion Energy Sciences, Workforce Development for Teachers and Scientists, Office of Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research, Sandia National Laboratories

OpenAlex ID: W4402230077