A Young PhD Cultivated by ASIPP-CEA Associated Laboratory

　　In the frame of the associated laboratory between ASIPP and CEA, Zhaoxi CHEN has carried out, under the supervision of Julien HILLAIRET, a successful PhD on the topic radio-frequency electrical contacts for Ion-Cyclotron Resonance Heating. These particular components should be used in the ITER ICRH antenna to allow assembling, sliding and lower the thermo-mechanical stress. They have to withstand a peak RF current of 2.25 kA at 60 MHz in steady-state conditions, under machine vacuum and temperature environment (up to 250°C) and during the whole life of the antenna without degradation.

　　Fulfilling these harsh specifications require a precise choice of materials, coatings and control of electrical conductivity and the mechanical stresses. A new test bed was developed by Zhaoxi CHEN and manufactured by ASIPP, which can mimic the ITER ICRH RF contact real working condition. With this test-bed, tribological and electrical performance study of four material pairs was carried out. Based on the knowledge obtained from these material studies, new RF contact prototypes have been proposed.