Turbulent Flux Analysis in E×B Penning Device

Magnetic fields have been extensively utilized in various plasma devices, such as E×B devices, to generate high-density plasma. However, due to plasma oscillations caused by instabilities, which can weaken the magnetic confinement effect, increasing the magnetic fields does not necessarily lead to a continuous increase in density. Therefore, a deeper understanding of plasma behavior under high magnetic field conditions is necessary. Our research using the E×B Penning source investigated the abnormal changes in the density gradient observed under high magnetic fields. As the magnetic field increased, the highest density point shifted from the radial center to the outer regions. To analyze the association of this phenomenon with plasma oscillations, we measured floating potential and ion saturation current using a 3-tip probe, moving it radially to examine the characteristics of these oscillations and obtain the turbulent flux at various points. This study provides a fundamental understanding of confinement systems under high magnetic fields by analyzing which oscillations dominantly contribute to the turbulent flux.