This work describes the scientific basis and associated simulation resultsfor the magnetization of an unmagnetized plasma via beat wave current drive.Two-dimensional electromagnetic particle-in-cell simulations have beenperformed for a variety of angles between the injected waves to demonstratebeat wave generation in agreement with theoretical predictions of the beat-wavewave vector and saturation time, revealing new 2D effects. The simulationsclearly demonstrate electron acceleration by the beat waves and resultantcurrent drive and magnetic field generation. The basic process depends entirelyon the angle between the parent waves and the ratio of the beat-wave phasevelocity to the electron thermal velocity. The wave to magnetic energyconversion efficiency of the cases examined is as high as 0.2%. The techniquecould enable novel plasma experiments in which the use of magnetic coils isinfeasible.
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