RAIL TYPE PULSED PLASMA ACCELERATION.
Abstract
Results of a 35-month study of rail type pulsed plasma acceleration are reviewed. Descriptive equations for the acceleration process are derived, including effects of nonparallel electrodes; analog solutaos for the equations are presented. The plasma mass-velocity distribution is discussed. Analytical treatments are presented for the generalized magnetic field, copper gas ionization and conductivity, energy efficiency, system energy distribution, plasmaelectrode interaction, supplementary magnetic fields, and alkali salt propellants. Specific items of instrumentation are described. Experimental studies for both fast and slow circuits are discussed in which electrode geometries, propellant materials, propellant mass, plasma dispersion, pressure effects, external magnetic fields, electrode conditioning, electrode materials, electrode erosion, and propellant geometry are considered. Vapor-deposited film propellants are found to provide a basis for considerable optimism in regard to the future of pulsed plasma accelerators. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1963
- Accession Number
- AD0467202
Entities
People
- D. G. Gubbins
- D. L. Clingman
- T. L. Rosebrock
Organizations
- General Motors