Experiments can be performed in a wide range of modalities – from using previously acquired data to collaborators bringing their own chambers for insertion into the MDPX magnet. With sufficient planning, the MPRL can accommodate any of these modes of operation. Recent collaborative experiments have frequently used either Mode 2 or Mode 4.
Mode 0: Complementary studies using previous MPRL data – theoretical, computational, or analytical projects
- A proposed experiment would use previous data obtained in experimental runs and no new experiments are requested.
- Data will be provided to a user – including calibration information. Data must be outside of the 1 year “embargo” period established by the MPRL data management plan.
- Example: A collaborator wishes to use previous measurements of particle transport in the MDPX device to perform a complementary study of diffusive processes in dusty plasmas.
Mode 1: Measurements on MDPX using existing capabilities
- A proposed experiment would use the existing hardware and diagnostics of the facility to perform an experiment. This could be to investigate a particular phenomenon or characterize a type of particle or plasma behavior at high magnetic field.
- A typical visit of this type could be between 7 to 14 days – with a half-day for setup and a half-day for shut down.
- Example: A collaborator wishes to operate the device in a low pressure regime to see how particle transport is affected by laser manipulation at high magnetic field.
Mode 2: Measurements on MDPX using non-invasive tools
- A proposed experiment would use the plasma and dusty plasma generation systems of the MDPX device, but a collaborator would provide an additional diagnostic system.
- A visit of this type could be as little as 7 days, but more likely to extend to 14 days depending upon complexity of the diagnostic system.
- A day or two would be dedicated to instaling and testing the diagnostic system, followed by research operations over the remaining time.
- Example: A collaborator wishes to add a high frame rate microscope system to perform high resolution studies of particle motion in the magnetic field.
Mode 3: Measurements on MDPX requiring configuration changes of the primary vacuum chamber
- A proposed experiment would require changing something on the interior of the primary octagonal MDPX vacuum chamber – e.g., adding electrodes for particle manipulation, changing particle sizes, adding a in-situ diagnostics, etc.
- The minimum recommended duration of this type of experiment would be 14 days – depending upon complexity of the modifications and time required to establish a good vacuum.
- The additional time is needed to ensure the compatibility and safe operation of the external hardware with the magnetic field.
- Example: A collaborator wishes to change particles and add additional confinement rings to the MDPX electrode to create multiple trapping regions for dust particles.
Mode 4: Measurements using the MDPX magnet system, but using a different vacuum chamber
- The primary MDPX vacuum chamber would be exchanged for a User-provided system.
- This type of experiment would likely require an extended stay of at least 14 days and significant planning beforehand.
- Within the MPRL, we have currently have three chambers that have bee used within the MDPX magnet system. These are described in the MPRL Technical Manual.
- Primary MDPX octagonal chamber
- Particle growth chamber – 6 inch (150 mm), 6-way cross
- A 10 inch diameter (25 cm) cylindrical chamber
- Example 1 (B = 0 vs. B ≠ 0 studies): Often, collaborators have performed extensive studies in their systems without a magnetic field and are seeking to perform complementary studies in the presence of a magnetic field.
- Example 2 (Calibration of fusion diagnostics): We have also supported studies where a collaborator seeks to calibrate an instrument / diagnostic for use in a high magnetic field environment (e.g., fusion experiments), where the magnetic field is pulsed. The MDPX facility provides a steady-state, uniform, high magnetic field environment for detailed testing of diagnostic performance.