MICROWAVE DIAGNOSTICS OF ARC HEATED ARGON PLASMA FLOWS,
Abstract
An experimental investigation of the electrical properties of arc-heated plasma flows was conducted using microwave diagnostic techniques. The basic theory underlying the propagation of electromagnetic waves in isotropic and anisotropic plasmas necessary for the interpretation of the microwave measurements is presented. Phase shift and attenuation measurements at 78 and 85.3 kmc were made to determine the electron density and electron collision frequency of the plasma flows. The electron densities which were determined experimentally agree quite well for the two operating frequencies. Comparison of the experimental electron densities with theoretical predictions indicates that the plasma flow is not in equilibrium. The attenuation measurements at the two frequencies agree qualitatively; however, the electron collision frequencies derived from these measurements do not agree quantitatively. Comparison with theoretical predictions indicates that electron-ion collisions are the predominant dissipative mechanism. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1963
- Accession Number
- AD0602543
Entities
People
- R. C. Warder Jr.
Organizations
- Northwestern University