Non-uniformity of fluctuation characteristics inside an edge magnetic island in Heliotron J

Abstract

Non-uniform fluctuation characteristics are observed within an edge magnetic island in Heliotron J. The island possesses a long connection length comparable to the confined region. These fluctuations are measured using a Langmuir probe. The island’s presence is confirmed through the plasma response, observed in the modulation amplitude of electron temperature and its phase delay relative to the heat source in a heat modulation experiment. Within the island, the electron density is notably high, accompanied by distinct profiles of electron temperature and electric field, likely attributable to the magnetic island. Contrary to expectations, density fluctuations within the edge magnetic island are not locally minimized, despite the reduced gradient of the profile within the island. Statistical analysis shows a suppression of intermittent transport inside the island, while intermittent fluctuations increase towards the exterior. A further analysis to segregate turbulence-driving and spreading factors reveals that both turbulence-driven and spreading contributions are comparably significant inside the island. Additionally, the non-uniform turbulence results in a spatially structured fluctuation-driven particle flux. Overall, the experimental findings indicate that fluctuation characteristics exhibit notable non-uniformity both inside and near the island. This non-uniformity potentially complicates heat transport and may lead to three-dimensional, asymmetric transport within and at the periphery of the islands.