On the use of a capacitive diaphragm gauge for dust detection in next-step fusion devices

The technology underlying a ceramic capacitive diaphragm gauge (CDG) manometer has been investigated for use as a microbalance for measurement of dust accumulation in next-step fusion devices such as ITER. Initial trials have confirmed in principle the use of CDG devices as dust microbalances and both the gauge head and electronics have been adapted to address the environmental constraints. Remote electronics, capable of controlling the gauge at a distance of 30 m, have been developed and a prototype device has been tested in the laboratory, where a sensitivity of 500 mu g/cm(2) and dynamic range of at least 10(3) were demonstrated. The work shows that this approach is a promising contender to measure dust accumulation in next-step fusion devices. (c) 2006 American Institute of Physics.