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(S/3) Theory Summary

   
W. M. Tang 
 
Princeton University, Plasma Physics Laboratory Princeton, New Jersey, USA

 
Introduction
 
This is a summary of the advances in magnetic fusion energy theory research presented at the 17th International Atomic Energy Agency Fusion Energy Conference from 19 24 October, 1998 in Yokohama, Japan. Theory and simulation results from this conference provided encouraging evidence of significant progress in understanding the physics of thermonuclear plasmas. Indeed, the grand challenge for this field is to acquire the basic understanding that can readily enable the innovations which would make fusion energy practical. In this sense, as depicted in Fig. 1, research in fusion energy is increasingly able to be categorized as fitting well the ``Pasteur's Quadrant'' paradigm, where the research strongly couples basic science (``Bohr's Quadrant'') to technological impact (``Edison's Quadrant''). As supported by some of the work presented at this conference, this trend will be further enhanced by advanced simulations. Eventually, realistic three-dimensional modeling capabilities, when properly combined with rapid and complete data interpretation of results from both experiments and simulations, can contribute to a greatly enhanced cycle of understanding and innovation. Plasma science theory and simulation have provided reliable foundations for this improved modeling capability, and the exciting advances in high-performance computational resources have further acceler-ated progress. There were 68 papers presented at this conference in the area of magnetic fusion energy theory. They can be roughly categorized along their scientific areas of emphasis into five areas:

1. Turbulence and Transport (22 papers);
2. Macroscopic Equilibrium and Stability (20 papers);
3. Fast Particle Physics (9 papers);
4. Plasma Boundary Physics (10 papers); and
5. Wave/Plasma Interactions and Heating (7 papers).

As illustrated in Fig. 2, each of these areas individually provide major research challenges, but the ultimate goal will be to produce an effectively integrated physics-based modeling capability (encompassing key physics from all of these areas collectively) that will be able to predict fusion device performance with great reliability. This will require strong coupling to experiments and, if successful, would lead to prominent benefits such as

1. more cost-effective utilization of present-generation facilities to explore tokamak and alternate concepts; and
2. accelerated progress to better designs for future devices.

 

Read the full paper in PDF format.