Dynamics of zonal-flow-like structures in the edge of the TJ-II stellarator

The dynamics of fluctuating electric field structures in the edge of the TJ-II stellarator, which display zonal-flow-like traits, is studied. These structures have been shown to be global and affect particle transport dynamically (Alonso J et al 2012 Nucl. Fusion 52 063010). In this paper we discuss the possible drive (Reynolds stress) and damping (neoclassical viscosity, geodesic transfer) mechanisms for the associated E???B velocity. We show that (a) while the observed turbulence-driven forces can provide the necessary perpendicular acceleration, a causal relation could not be firmly established, possibly because of the locality of the Reynolds stress measurements, (b) the calculated neoclassical viscosity and damping times are comparable to the observed zonal-flow relaxation times and (c) although an accompanying density modulation is observed to be associated with the zonal flow, it is not consistent with the excitation of pressure sidebands, as those present in geodesic acoustic oscillations, caused by the compression of the E???B flow field.