Experimental Study of Magnetic Reconnection in Partially Ionized Plasmas Using Rotating Magnetic Field

Experimental setup to achieve long-pulse magnetic reconnection in partially ionized plasmas was developed using the rotating magnetic field technique. Two field-reversed configuration plasmas were formed and sustained along the axial direction in the experimental vessel, and the quasi-steady magnetic reconnection condition with the ionization degree of the order of 1% was maintained for more than 20 ms between the plasmas. Time duration of magnetic reconnection longer than the ion-neutral collision time and plasma parameters where the neutral particles possibly affect the reconnection process, were achieved. Reconnection events observed under the present experimental conditions were classified into three cases according to the ionization degree, and a new experimental regime for magnetic reconnection in partially ionized plasmas was successfully demonstrated. (C) 2019 The Japan Society of Plasma Science and Nuclear Fusion Research