Control of Internal Profiles via LHCD on Alcator C-Mod

Abstract

LHCD on Alcator C-Mod is being used in plasmas with parameters similar to those expected on ITER for the purpose of tailoring the plasma current profile. LHCD experiments have also produced intriguing results related to momentum transport and edge pedestal physics that affect the toroidal rotation profile and the temperature and density profiles. Quantitative comparisons between local measurements and theory/simulation have been performed, confirming the off-axis localization of the current drive, as well as its magnitude and location dependence on the launched n|| spectrum and electron temperature. Applying LHCD during the current ramp saves volt-seconds and delays the peaking of the current profile. Counter current toroidal rotation during LHCD has been observed in both L and H-mode plasmas. In H-mode plasmas the edge pedestal collisionality is reduced while the overall pressure in the pedestal increases slightly.