Plasma Component Interaction

The research group investigates the interaction between plasma and wall components

Plasma-wall interaction in fusion devices is dominated by particle and heat fluxes. While particle fluxes primarily determine surface processes, the concurrent heat flux affects entire wall elements (components).

To optimize material properties, the group produces material samples, coatings, and thin alloy films and characterizes them physically, chemically, and mechanically using a comprehensive range of techniques. In addition, exposed samples from European fusion and plasma facilities are examined.  A key focus are investigations using two high-performance scanning electron microscopes.
Using the GLADIS ion beam facility, heat flux tests can be performed at relevant power densities and cooling conditions on both small samples or models and on complete, actively cooled components.

The group leader holds a joint appointment with the Technical University of Munich as Professor of “Plasma-Material Interaction.”