SOME CHARACTERISTICS OF AN ELECTRICAL DISCHARGE TRANSVERSE TO A SUPERSONIC SEEDED NITROGEN PLASMA STREAM WITH COLD-COPPER ELECTRODES
Abstract
Some characteristics of a steady, direct-current electrical discharge transverse to a supersonic seeded nitrogen plasma are presented. The discharge from cold-copper electrodes had an overall voltage-current characteristic which was positive in all cases. The effects of (1) the type of seed (K2CO3 or NaK), (2) the seeding rate (about 0.2 to 2 percent K or NaK by weight), (3) the static pressure level (from 0.3 to 1.0 atm), and (4) the plasma enthalpy level (from about 1250 to 1800 kcal/kg) on the discharge are given in figure form. Dynamic data were also recorded and demonstrate that rather large fluctuations having frequencies of a few hundred cps exist in the current. It is proposed that the electrodes introduce electrons into the conducting plasma through field emission. The discharge appears diffuse in the core of the plasma and may be quantitatively explained with an existing nonequilibrium, elevated-electron temperature theory.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 1965
- Accession Number
- AD0459312
Entities
People
- J. M. Whoric
- K. E. Tempelmeyer
- L. E. Rittenhouse
- M. L. Mckee
Organizations
- Arnold Engineering Development Complex