IPP Annual Report 2007 - Max-Planck-Institut für Plasmaphysik ...

control but also because of the novel physics arising from the interaction with fast fusionproduced
α-particles. More empirically based, but motivated by an overwhelming practical
need, are the contributions of the Institute to edge and divertor-plasma modelling.
JET was operational for the first three months of the year. The ITER-relevant experiments
to elucidate the effect of the toroidal field ripple were a highlight. A noticeable difference
in confinement, toroidal rotation, ELM frequency and amplitude between JET and JT-60U
in Japan was found in otherwise identical discharges. In the following months JET operation
was interrupted to install the ITER-like ICRH antenna as well as a new pellet injection
system. Parallel to the shutdown, the JET EP2 project has proceeded well and the
2008 campaigns C20-C25 were prepared. The MPI for Plasma Physics has been
involved in many of these activities. In particular, two scientists from the Institute were
appointed to support the management of the JET Task Forces S1 and E.
A major new part of the contribution of the Institute to ITER during 2007 was participation
in the design review. The design review panel was divided into working groups
which were charged with evaluating and prioritising the list of open issues in the ITER
design and with finding appropriate solutions. The MPI for Plasma Physics also contributes
actively to the physics definition of ITER via the International Tokamak Physics
Activity. The expertise of the Institute is in demand for a wide range of activities in
support of ITER, based not only on the results from ASDEX Upgrade but also on knowhow
in the Technology, Theory, Materials and Stellarator Divisions. This work ranges
from studies of plasma scenarios to work on specific heating and diagnostic systems.
Within the project “Plasma-facing Materials and Components” the areas of plasma-wall
interaction studies, material modification under plasma exposure, development of new
plasma-facing materials and their characterisation have been merged to form a field of
competence at the Institute. The work supports the development of fusion devices at the
Institute and also generates basic expertise with regard to plasma-facing components in
ITER and fusion reactors. The activities are strongly embedded in the materials research
community: The MPI for Plasma Physics coordinates the large EU Integrated Project
“ExtreMat” with 37 partners and heads the European Task Force on Plasma-Wall
Interactions.
Following a year of consolidation the Directorate and the Board of Scientific Directors
are confident that the project Wendelstein 7-X is now back on track and that the new
completion date will be kept. Fortunately, the ASDEX Upgrade Team has overcome the
limitations caused by the severely damaged flywheel generator EZ4. The excellent work
of the staff in all Divisions in 2007 has ensured that the Institute will continue to play a
central role in international fusion research.
On behalf of the Directorate and the Board of Scientific Directors I would like to thank
them all for their invaluable contributions.
Scientific Director Alex Bradshaw