Edge physics and H-mode studies in ASDEX Upgrade

ASDEX Upgrade is a poloidal divertor experiment very similar to ITER with respect to magnetic field properties and especially to the plasma boundary geometry. A large part of the programme on ASDEX Upgrade is therefore dedicated to investigating and optimizing reactor-relevant plasma boundary issues. This contribution is concerned with H-mode studies and edge physics in general. The L/H-power threshold, H-mode confinement, details of ELM dynamic and 'dithering' L/H-transitions will be discussed. The edge physics investigations are concerned with model calculations and validations, the characteristic 'approach' to the density limit (DL), target plate sputtering and the influence of hydrocarbons, asymmetries and drifts depending on the direction of the toroidal magnetic field, and finally first results of high-Z material experiments.