Constraints on stellarator divertors from Hamiltonian mechanics

TL;DR

This paper explores how Hamiltonian mechanics imposes fundamental constraints on the magnetic field configurations used in stellarator divertor design, integrating physics and mathematical principles for improved plasma edge management.

Contribution

It introduces a framework combining Hamiltonian mechanics with plasma physics constraints to inform stellarator divertor design.

Findings

Hamiltonian constraints limit magnetic field configurations.

Integration of physics and mathematical constraints improves divertor design.

Framework aids in optimizing particle and heat exhaust in stellarators.

Abstract

The design of any large stellarator requires a plan for the removal of the particles and heat that are exhausted across the plasma edge. This is called the divertor problem, for the particle exhaust must be diverted into pumping chambers. Although the physics of diverted plasmas has many subtleties, the magnetic field configuration between the plasma edge and the surrounding chamber walls is the foundation upon which divertor design is based. The properties of this magnetic configuration has both practical constraints and mathematical constraints from magnetic field lines obeying a 1~1/2 degree of freedom Hamiltonian. Constraints from plasma physics will also be discussed; they need to be integrated with the constraints from from Hamiltonian mechanics in conceptual designs of stellarator divertors.