The dud detector: An empirically-based real-time algorithm to save neutron and T budgets during JET DT operation

Operations using deuterium-tritium (DT) mixtures are envisaged in JET device in the forthcoming 2020 experimental campaign. These experiments will offer a unique possibility to study several open issues in support to ITER and DEMO, such as alpha particle heating, and to improve the high plasma performance obtained in the previous DT campaign Keilhacker et al. [1]. During DT operation, each plasma discharge will be a precious resource, being both T and neutron budget limited. It will be thus mandatory to promptly detect and safely terminate those plasma discharges which do not achieve the expected target parameters. A real-time detector of underperforming discharges has been developed for this purpose and it is named the dud detector. The dud detector calculates and monitors the time evolution of plasma performance indicators, which can be used to trigger an alarm and a proper plasma termination. The experience gained on the algorithm's behavior during DD operation will allow the use of this tool during DT operations and can be used as a guide to design dud detectors for ITER and future fusion reactors.