PROPELLANTS FOR ELECTRICAL PROPULSION ENGINES OF THE CONTACT OR BOMBARDMENT ION TYPE
Abstract
Materials and methods for producing molecular ions and a colloidal ion beam suitable for use in electrical propulsion devices are investigated. The molecular compounds were selected for study primarily on a basis of expected favorable ionization characteristics and high structural stability to fragmentation. A theoretical analysis of a colloid producing system which utilizes a convergent-divergent nozzle for rapid condensation of propellant is presented. Electrical charging of the droplets is accomplished by ionizing a fraction of the propellant vapor prior to expansion through the nozzle. A graphical approach for obtaining approximate thermodynamic conditions necessary to adiabatically condense propellant vapors in a typical colloid generating system is introduced. Experimental results from operation of a charged, mercury colloid generator are presented. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 16, 1962
- Accession Number
- AD0293913
Entities
People
- H.e. Dubb
- V.e. Bedwell
Organizations
- Rocketdyne