Detailed comparison of simulated and measured plasma profiles in the scrape-off layer and edge plasma of DIII-D

The results of detailed comparisons between experimental measurements of the scrape-off layer and divertor plasmas and simulations using the UEDGE code for a DIII-D discharge [J. Luxon , Proceedings of the 11th International Conference on Plasma Physics and Controlled Nuclear Fusion (International Atomic Energy Agency, Vienna, 1986), Vol. I, p. 159] are reported. The simulations focus on understanding the flow of both fuel and impurity particles throughout the edge and scrape-off layer (SOL) plasma. The core impurity content and the core hydrogen ionization rate can be explained by sputtering and recycling in the divertor region alone. The model reproduces most of the detailed experimental measurements. The simulations include the effect of intrinsic impurities, assumed to be carbon originating from sputtering of the plasma facing surfaces. The simulations accurately reproduce the total radiated power, although the spatial profile of radiation is somewhat narrower in the simulation. The measured carbon density on closed field lines is reproduced well with the simulation. Comparison of carbon emission lines indicates the total carbon sputtering yield is a factor of 2 to 4 less than expected, although the total radiated power and core carbon content are insensitive to the sputtering yield. The agreement between simulation and experiment permits more meaningful interpretation of the experimental measurements. (C) 2000 American Institute of Physics. [S1070-664X(00)02708-7].