Alvand Tokamak

Intelligence Summary: Alvand Tokamak (Alvand-U)

Node Identity: The Alvand-U Tokamak is a small-sized magnetic confinement fusion device operated by AEOI at the Plasma and Fusion Research School within NSTRI. Dating to the 1970s as one of Iran's earliest plasma devices (alongside the zeta pinch, Damavand Tokamak, and Dena plasma focus), the Alvand represents the foundational generation of Iranian tokamak research. It features a circular cross-section design with minor radius 12.6 cm, major radius 45.5 cm, toroidal field up to 0.9 T, and plasma current of 15-35 kA.

Strategic Relevance: The Alvand Tokamak serves as a workhorse diagnostic and training platform within AEOI's plasma physics program. While its small size limits achievable plasma parameters (electron temperature up to 100 eV, plasma density 0.5-2 × 10^13 cm^-3), the device has been continuously upgraded and remains actively researched as of 2024-2025. Recent publications include hard X-ray dose mapping from runaway electrons, magnetic diagnostic system upgrades with 12 poloidal and radial probe arrays, and Grad-Shafranov equilibrium analysis of plasma shape, displacement, poloidal beta, and internal inductance. The diagnostic expertise developed on Alvand — particularly in magnetic probe arrays, runaway electron characterization, and plasma equilibrium reconstruction — has potential applications in broader nuclear and plasma science, including weapons-related implosion diagnostics.

Technical Focus / Capabilities: The Alvand-U has undergone significant diagnostic upgrades, including a new magnetic diagnostic system with 12 poloidal and radial probe arrays. Research focuses on plasma shape investigation, displacement measurement, poloidal beta determination, and internal inductance calculation via Grad-Shafranov analysis. Runaway electron studies and hard X-ray dose mapping contribute to understanding plasma-wall interactions and radiation safety — relevant to both fusion reactor design and nuclear component hardening.

Network Linkage: The Alvand Tokamak is operated by both AEOI and the Plasma and Fusion Research School. It received an ITER delegation visit in November 2015 as part of the tour of all Iranian tokamak facilities. The device is part of Iran's five-tokamak fleet alongside Damavand, IR-T1, Taban, and Alborz, representing one of the most active small-tokamak research programs in the Middle East.