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(CDP/14) Modelling of Advanced Tokamak Physics Scenarios in ALCATOR C-Mod

P. T. Bonoli, M. Porkolab, J. Ramos, Y. Takase¹, S. Wukitch, R. L. Boivin, C. Fiore, J. Goetz, R. Granetz, M. Greenwald, A. Hubbard, I. Hutchinson, J. Irby, B. LaBombard, B. Lipschultz, E. Marmar, A. Mazurenko, D. Mossessian, E. Nelson-Melby, C. S. Pitcher, J. Reardon, J. Rice, W. Rowan², J. A. Snipes, J. Terry, J. Weaver³, S. Wolfe

Plasma Science and Fusion Center, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139 USA
¹ Tokyo University, Tokyo, Japan
² University of Texas, Austin, TX USA
³ University of Maryland, College Park, MD USA

Abstract.  Advanced tokamak modes of operation in Alcator C-Mod have been investigated using a simulation model which combines an MHD equilibrium and current profile control calculation with an ideal MHD stability analysis. Stable access to high $\beta_{\mathrm{t}}^{}$ operating modes with reversed shear current density profiles has been demonstrated using 2.4-3.0 MW of off-axis lower hybrid current drive (LHCD). Here $\beta_{\mathrm{t}}^{}$ = 2$\mu_{0}^{}$(p)/B²₀ is the volume averaged toroidal plasma beta. Current profile control at the $\beta$-limit and beyond has also been demonstrated. The effects of LH power level as well as changes in the profiles of density and temperature on shear reversal radius have been quantified and are discussed.

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