Criticality of the Grad-Shafranov equation: transport barriers and fragile equilibria

Abstract

We review criticality theory as a prelude to consideration of criticality of the Grad-Shafranov equation. Novel criticality conditions of ODEs and PDEs are derived, easily evaluated. The possibility that transport barriers are associated with characteristics of the equilibrium equation is explored. We conjecture that equilibrium criticality permits the appearance of new solution branches: the high confinement branch has high poloidal flux gradient in a diamagnetic region of the plasma. Similarly, criticality may lead to loss of solution, which could be related to MHD instability and/or island formation