Self-consistent calculations of ICRH in toroidal plasmas

A method for self-consistent calculations of the distribution function and the wave field in toroidal geometry, including finite orbit widths and RF induced diffusion, has been developed. During fast wave electron current drive, an asymmetry of the current drive efficiency with respect to the toroidal propagation direction of the wave has been experimentally observed. This asymmetry is resolved in the calculations as an effect of the difference in the parasitic ion absorption, caused by the different high energy ion tails, formed by waves propagating co and counter with respect to the plasma current.