TURBUPLAS

The TURBUPLAS project (TURBUlence and its control in magnetized PLASmas) aims to develop innovative methods to efficiently control transport processes in magnetized plasmas. The main objective is to control the electric field profile, which influences plasma rotation and destabilization, by injecting current and radio-frequency waves into the plasma. This will improve the control of particle and heat fluxes in plasmas. The project focuses on turbulence, which is responsible for the transport of heat and particles across magnetic field surfaces. By controlling this turbulence, the project aims to address critical challenges in applications such as cold plasmas, plasma thrusters, and magnetic fusion. Experiments will primarily be conducted on the SPEKTRE platform, which will allow for the production of plasma regimes relevant to the different targeted applications, including the conditions encountered in the edge of fusion reactors. Additionally, an innovative reflectometer will be designed to characterize turbulence in these plasmas. The methodology is based on a combination of experiments and numerical simulations, utilizing state-of-the-art simulation codes such as BOUT++ and GYSELA, developed by the consortium. The project is structured into several components, from project coordination to instrumentation, code development, and the characterization of instabilities and turbulence in magnetized plasmas. The expected outcomes include both fundamental research on plasma physics and industrial applications such as surface treatment and space propulsion. This 42-month project, coordinated by Frédéric Brochard, brings together a consortium of plasma physics experts from various institutions, with complementary expertise in theory, modeling, and instrumentation.