DIII-D achieves ELM-free EDA and QCE H-modes at high density for fusion pilot plant relevance
DIII-D reports ELM-free EDA and QCE H-modes sustained at high density with QCM activity and controlled divertor loads. Stability and turbulence modeling indicate transport-limited pedestals and resistive ballooning near the separatrix. These scenarios offer a pathway to ELM-free operation but require reactor-scale validation.
Key limitation is the absence of integrated power-handling and neutron-irradiation tests at reactor scale. Longer-pulse, higher-field devices with active detachment control would strengthen evidence for FPP viability. The 2026 arXiv preprint provides detailed stability calculations but remains an experimental overview without predictive modeling closure.
DIII-D team: Within 18 months, EDA or QCE access will be demonstrated in a device with B_t > 2 T and pulse length >5 s while maintaining detachment.
Sources (2)
- [1]Primary Source(https://arxiv.org/abs/2610.31782)
- [2]Supporting Source(https://doi.org/10.1088/1741-4326/acf0e2)