Computational plasma physics Low Temperature

Mission statement

The general aim of the CPP-LT group is the development and application of advanced numerical and theoretical models to describe the physics of low temperature plasma and plasma surface interaction.

Long term aims

The research of the CPP-LT group is done within the framework of Fusion Energy.  The research line of the institute on Plasma Surface Interactions requires support from simulations and analysis with sophisticated numerical and theoretical models. The aim of the CPP-LT group is to develop new and modify existing models for this purpose. Models on the other hand benefit from validation against experimental data. This holds especially for the suite of numerical tools needed to support ITER and the design of future reactors like DEMO. Relevant models, validated against experimental data from Magnum- and Pilot-psi, will be applied to the plasma in the ITER divertor and will be made available to the EFDA task force for Integrated Tokamak Modeling.

A number of simulation tools has been or will be acquired and developed to study all aspects of plasma surface interaction in Magnum- and Pilot-psi. These tools address the physics of the plasma beam and its recycling at the target, the details of the plasma-surface interaction, and the migration of released target material.

The framework for collaboration within EURATOM is provided by the task forces for Integrated Tokamak Modeling (ITM) and Plasma Wall Interaction (PWI).

The scientific program will provide ample possibilities for the education of PhD students and trainees.

Personnel

Current research and Highlights

Molecular dynamics simulations of the interaction of hydrogen and hydrocarbons with plasma facing surfaces, using the HCPARCAS code (Dagmar de Rooij). Topics are erosion and re-deposition of hydrocarbons, and hydrogen retention and desorption. Wall materials studied are amorphous hydrogenated carbon and amorphous tungsten carbide.

Simulation of the Magnum-psi and Pilot-psi plasma beam and its interaction with the target is based on an adapted version of the B2-EIRENE (SOLPS5.1) package. (Rob Wieggers). This package consists of a fluid description of the plasma coupled to a Monte Carlo description of the neutral species.

Simulation of silane-hydrogen rf discharges (W.J. Goedheer). This work addresses discharges used for the deposition of hydrogenated amorphous and nano-crystalline silicon layers in solar cell research. It is done in collaboration with the Debye Institute for Nanophotonics of the University of Utrecht.

Simulation of complex plasmas under microgravity (W.J. Goedheer). This study addresses the behaviour of dust grains in radio-frequency discharges.