An Algorithm for the Analysis of Inductive Antennas of Arbitrary Cross Section for Heating in the Ion Cyclotron Range of Frequencies

The application of ion cyclotron range of frequency (ICRF) heating to near-ignited plasmas will require launching structures that will be capable of withstanding the harsh plasma environment. The recessed antenna configuration is expected to provide sufficient protection for the structure, but to date no analysis has been done to determine if adequate coupling can be achieved in such a configuration. In this work we present a method for determining the current distribution for the antenna in the direction transverse to current flow and predict antenna loading in the presence of plasma. Antennas of arbitrary cross section are analyzed above ground planes of arbitrary shape. Results from the antenna design code (ANDES) are presented and compared to experimental results.