Magnetic Phase transitions in Plasmas and Transport Barriers

TL;DR

This paper proposes a model where magnetic phase separation in plasmas explains L to H transitions and transport barrier formation, reinterpreting the interchange mechanism as a magnetisation interchange with testable criteria.

Contribution

It introduces a novel plasma model linking magnetic phase separation to transport barriers, offering a reinterpretation of the interchange mechanism.

Findings

Magnetic phase separation can drive L to H transitions.

A testable criterion for the transition is proposed.

Magnetisation interchange explains pedestal build-up.

Abstract

A model of magnetic phase transitions in plasmas is presented: plasma blobs with pressure excess or defect are dia- or para-magnets and move radially under the influence of the background plasma magnetisation. It is found that magnetic phase separation could be the underlying mechanism of L to H transitions and drive transport barrier formation. Magnetic phase separation and associated pedestal build up, as described here, can be explained by the well known interchange mechanism, now reinterpreted as a magnetisation interchange which remains relevant even when stable or saturated. A testable necessary criterion for the L to H transition is presented.