Plasma engineering
Magnetohydrodynamic flow, surface properties, silicon solar cells, and thermoelectric properties of graphite compounds
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Magnetohydrodynamic flow, surface properties, silicon solar cells, and thermoelectric properties of graphite compounds
The effects of low surrounding pressures on cathodes of arc jet engines with electromagnetic acceleration are investigated for pressure and current energies of 20 to 100 Torr. and 400 to 1000 A. Experiments with 50 mm long and 8 mm diameter tungsten-thorium cathode in a coaxial gas flow show that pre-heating of the cathode reduces the duration of the instable arc discharge and thus material loss. The use of lighter gases also reduces instability effects, as well as the use of increased pressures and a massive gas influx.
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Plasma separator ion engine allowing optimization of ion source and accelerator system independently, showing gains in thrust and less propellant consumption
Plasma measurements in cesium electron bombardment ion engine indicate that reversed cathode-anode configuration improves radial ion distribution
Plasma studies in electron bombardment ion engine
Plasma measurements in cesium electron bombardment ion engine indicate that reversed cathode-anode configuration improves radial ion distribution
Plasma characteristics of electron bombardment ion engine
Plasma theory of lewis type bombardment ion engine
Performance characteristics of repetitively pulsed two-stage plasma propulsion engine
MPD engine plasma flow investigated by Langmuir probe measurement of ion saturation current
Electronics of plasma arc jet engines
The ion engine on ATS-6 has been operated in daylight and eclipse. The effect on particle fluxes to the spacecraft was monitored. This data provides information on the potential of the spacecraft with respect to the ambient plasma and the local electric fields caused by the charge distribution on the spacecraft. Operation of the ion engine and/or the neutralizer clamps the spacecraft within a few volts of the ambient plasma potential. Operation of only the neutralizer tends to reduce the differential charge on the satellite, whereas operation of the ion engine reduces it below the sensitivity limit of the detectors.
The design parameters of effective magnetic insulation for plasma engines are discussed. An experimental model used to demonstrate the process of plasma acceleration and magnetic insulation is considered which consists of a copper strap that is wound around a glass tube and connected to a capacitor. In order to adequately model the magnetic insulation mechanisms, a computer algorithm is developed. Plasma engines, with their efficient utilization of the propellant mass, are expected to provide the next-generation advanced propulsion systems.
Nuclear-electric power requirements for electric rockets - contact and bombardment ion engines, arc jets, and pulsed plasma engines
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Plasma separator ion engine