Tests and analyses for the mechanical and thermal qualification of the new RFX first wall tiles

The graphite tiles of the RFX first wall were modified to achieve a more uniform power deposition on the plasma facing surface and to give housing to a large number of in-vessel probes. These design requirements led to a substantial reduction of the tile thickness with respect to the original design. For this reason, the new first wall tiles had to be carefully qualified both from the mechanical and thermal point of view, carrying out experimental tests and analyses.