Advantages of spherical torus concept

Abstract

By reducing the aspect ratio of a Tokamak toward the lower limit of one, qualitative improvements to the potential physics properties of the plasma have become more evident in recent years. Utilizing the broad knowledge base from the successful Tokamak and Advanced Tokamak research, a wide range of advantageous physics features have been suggested for the Spherical Torus(ST, or Very Low Aspect Ratio Tokamaks). The potential advantages encompass the entire range of plasma physics topics : MHD stability, confinement, current drive, and edge. The advantages could lead further to new physics parameter regimes of high interest to magnetic fusion energy development.