A SUMMARY OF THE PROPERTIES OF SPACE-CHARGE LIMITED BEAMS FOR THRUST APPLICATIONS,
Abstract
Pertinent space charge equations and numerical values are presented for application of electron beams to achieve high specific impulses for rocket propulsion. A chart is derived for space charge limited mass flow where the ratio of molecular weight to number of electronic charges is plotted against accelerating voltage at 1-cm fixed spacing. The Pierce gun (J. R. Pierce 'Theory and Design of Electron Beams,' Van Nostrand, 1949, Chapter 10) is cited as possible of modification for application of the calculations. Effective currentcarrying area would be 2 to 5% of total surface. With 30,000v the area would be 2 to 5 sq m/kg of thrust. Rocket electrical neutrality might be attained by having half the emitted particles postively charged and half negatively.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 17, 1956
- Accession Number
- AD0608003
Entities
People
- D. B. Langmuir
- H. Shelton