ABSTRACT:
The prediction of the nuclear fusion performance (and other important parameters) in magnetic confinement devices requires knowledge of the distribution of energetic ions in the plasma. Numerical simulations play an importan role in determining the spatial and velocity distribution of energetic ions since experimental measurements are difficult. The numerical tools are also essential for advancing our understanding of the dynamics, which determine the evolution of the energetic ion distribution as they interact with plasma waves; in particular, Alfven waves. Predictions for future devices, such as ITER and DEMO reactors, also depend on numerical simulations. This talk
begins with an overview of the current status of the simulations and the challenges we are presently deaing with. Recent results for specific scenarios of the JT-60U tokamak are then discussed.