RESEARCH ON PLASMA PROPERTIES OF MAGNETOPLASMADYNAMIC POWER GENERATORS.
Abstract
The initial objective of the program was to obtain basic information on the plasma properties of working fluids for magnetoplasmadynamic (MPD) power generators. The experimental portion of this initial program centered on a closed plasma diagnostic loop through which helium seeded with cesium was circulated. Test section temperatures were variable between 1000 and 1800K. New spectroscopic techniques and methods of evaluating observed spectra were developed. The theoretical approach to the problem consisted of developing a mathematical model to describe nonequilibrium plasmas together with supplementary theoretical analyses to aid in design of improved MPD power generators. Instabilities occuring in the plasma flow were treated analytically. Redefinition of program objectives resulted in the demonstration of nonequilibrium ionization in a closed-loop generator operating at 1800K. The working fluid was helium seeded with cesium. The power output accompanying the nonequilibrium ionization was on the order of a few watts. The severe reduction in power level below theoretical predictions was due to Hall shorting within the generator. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 31, 1966
- Accession Number
- AD0635459
Entities
People
- Donald L. Tipton
- Richard T. Schneider
- Robert L. Koch
- Ronald O. Whitaker
- Theodore L. Rosebrock