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Novel Method for Plasma Density Measurements--Southwest Sciences, Inc., 1570 Pacheco Street, Suite E-11, Santa Fe, NM 87505-3937; 505-984-1322
Dr. Daniel J. Kane, Principal Investigator
Dr. Alan C. Stanton, Business Official
DOE Grant No. DE-FG03-99ER82886
Amount: $100,000
As requirements for more detailed fusion plasma diagnostics increase, the need for more efficient and less complicated alternatives becomes more prevalent. This issue will be addressed through the application of ultra-fast lasers, which allow for better measurements of neutrals and electrons in plasmas. While interferometry using ultra-fast lasers has been used successfully to measure absolute phase changes, this project will use spectral interferometry to measure relative phase changes between a continuum of wavelengths. Measuring the relative phase, using ultra-fast lasers pulses to measure plasma densities, rather than absolute phase changes in a laser beam relaxes constraints on the interferometer making it more stable and robust against noise and vibration. Consequently, the interferometer will be easier to use than existing interferometers, have a higher dynamic range, and be more resistant to vibration. Phase I will focus on demonstrating the accuracy and stability of interferometers based on ultra-fast lasers. Plasma densities using these interferometers will also be measured in laboratory experiments.
Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: This research should facilitate the development of improved instrumentation for the measurement of plasma densities. It should also improve existing ultra-fast laser techniques and diagnostics for researchers.