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An upgraded version of the fast semi-analytical code ANTITER is used to model the refueled TWA sections of any arbitrary number of straps facing a low coupling plasma profile. The code computes the Y, Z and S matrices of the antenna array from which the performances of the TWA sections and of their feeding system are deduced as a function of the geometry of the TWA. The model incorporates the feeding of the section by a resonant ring circuit recirculating the output power of each section. Approximate scaling laws guiding the design are derived for the antenna main parameters. A first optimization of the design for the DEMO antenna section is made and the resulting power capability of a DEMO system evaluated.

This contribution proposes a new approach for the ponderomotive description of electron acceleration in ICRF discharge initiation. The motion of electrons in the parallel electric field Ez is separated into a fast oscillation and a slower drift around the oscillation centre. Three terms are maintained in the Taylor expansion of the electric field (0th , 1st and 2nd order). The efficiency for electron acceleration by Ez (z, t) is then assessed by comparing the values of these terms at the slow varying coordinate z0 . When (i) the 0th order term is not significantly larger than 1st order term at the reflection point, or when (ii) the 2nd order term is negative and not sufficiently small compared to the 1st order term at the reflection point, then the electron will gain energy in the reflection. An example for plasma production by the TOMAS ICRF system is given. Following the described conditions it can be derived that plasma production is (i) most efficient close to the antenna straps (few cm's) where the field gradient and amplitude are large, and (ii) that the lower frequency field accelerates electrons more easily for a given antenna voltage.

Different feeding options for distributed ICRF antenna systems in DEMO are analysed and compared, based on detailed circuit modelling. Voltages and currents (amplitude and phase) are computed for each element of the array. The power delivered by the feeding networks is evaluated characterizing each system. Although the results presented are for a small number of radiating elements, the procedure can be scaled to any arbitrary number of straps and feeding connections. Among the three options analysed (i.e. allfed; distributed; resonant ring) the resonant ring feeding appears to be the most suitable configuration for a traveling wave array distributed antenna system in the DEMO reactor.