Dust generation and accumulation in JET-ILW: morphology and stability of co-deposits on main plasma-facing components and wall probes

Dust particles and co-deposits were sampled for the first time from beryllium limiters and bulk tungsten divertor (both after ILW-3), and test mirrors from the main chamber after ILW-2 and ILW-3. The focus was on the morphology of molten particles and metal outgrowths. In parallel, the stability of beryllium layers under the impact of hot water was examined on limiters and Be coatings. The study performed by several microscopy methods including SEM, AFM, FIB, TEM and Be-sensitive EDX has revealed: (i) an asymmetric distribution of Be particles with the largest objects (125-550 mu m) on side surfaces of the Be tile: (ii) the presence of highly porous particles, resembling blisters; (iii) very few thin flakes of co-deposits on the divertor, on the shadowed edge of lamella; (iv) the elemental composition and internal structure of the needle-shaped outgrowths on the mirrors: MoO; (v) no detectable impact of water on the beryllium morphology.

Automated summary

This study analyzed dust particles and co-deposits sampled from beryllium limiters, bulk tungsten divertor, and test mirrors using various microscopy methods, revealing different morphologies and structures.