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The ability to confine very high temperature plasmas is central to the issue of fusion power generation. RSPE hosts the H1-NF toroidal helical-axis stellarator which is used to study the physics of confined plasmas and to develop novel diagnostic instrumentation for larger power reactors. Special areas of interest include plasma turbulence and spectroscopic instrumentation.
In support of the experimental efforts, RSPE also undertakes a strong theoretical research program in modelling of plasma flow dynamics and related complex phenomena. We are also a partial host for the ARC Complex Systems Research Network.
Potential student research projects
You could be doing your own research into fusion and plasma confinement. Below are some examples of student physics research projects available in RSPE.
Studies on the effect of He irradiation on the microstructure and mechanical properties of W/ W alloys
Nuclear fusion is a promising technology for solving the world’s energy crisis while drastically reducing pollution and avoiding the creation of nuclear waste, a major issue for nuclear fission. However, there are many scientific and technical challenges...
Orbit topologies and wave-particle resonance in fusion plasmas
In this project the wave-particle resonance condition will be computed for a range of precomputed particle orbits (and orbit populations), which initially were computed for transport studies. An estimate of wave-drive due to spatial gradients will be afforded...
Electric field structure of Energetic Geodesic Acoustic Modes (EGAMs)
The project aims to add particle orbit effects to an ANU developed theory for solving the electric field structure of Energetic Geodesic Acoustic Modes (EGAMs). EGAMs are unstable electrostatic oscillations in tokamak plasmas that are harmful to plasma...
Modelling a solar flare by MRXMHD
In this project, we apply multiple-region relaxed MHD model, designed to describe the fractal fix of chaotic field lines, magentic islands, and flux surfaces in toroidal magnetic confinement, to describe a solar flare.
Constraining toroidal equilibria to accretion disc observations
In this project we would compare the construction of accretion disc and magnetic configuration Grad-Shafranov problems, and apply a recently developed toroidal magnetic confinement equilibrium code to model an accretion disc. A focus of the project will...
Nano-bubble formation in fusion relevant materials
Fusion energy promises millions of years of clean energy, but puts extreme stress on materials. This research will resolve scientific issues surrounding plasma-material interactions to guide and facilitate development of future advanced materials for fusion...
Please browse our full list of available physics research projects to find a student research project that interests you.
Updated: 15 January 2019/ Responsible Officer: Director, RSPE/ Page Contact: Physics Webmaster
