Validation of integrated modeling of KSTAR plasmas with carbon divertor using JINTRAC and prediction for tungsten divertor

Abstract The JINTRAC integrated modeling suite has been adapted for the KSTAR tokamak, with its primary goal being the establishment of a core-edge integrated modeling framework for predictive analysis of KSTAR plasmas. This framework was validated by benchmarking JINTRAC’s physics modules against both established codes and experimental data from a KSTAR carbon (C) divertor discharge (#25458), demonstrating high fidelity. Based on the validation, predictive core-edge coupled simulations were performed to investigate the effects of changing the divertor material from C to tungsten (W). The simulations predicted a significant increase in core radiation and a corresponding decrease in plasma temperatures, consistent with the behavior of high- Z materials. Specifically, the high tungsten influx causes radiative cooling in the pedestal and core regions, leading to a reduction in edge bootstra…