ELECTRODELESS PARTICLE THRUSTOR.
Abstract
Research was performed on the generation of charged particles by subjecting a liquid, at the tip of an emitter, to a high electric field. The research was aimed at the ultimate development of a highly efficient microthrustor capable of emitting equal currents of positive and negative particles. Several emitter geometries and materials were tested including capillary needles and slits with dimensions ranging to a few mils. Performance was determined by time-of-flight spectroscopy. Propellants utilized to generate charged particles include organic solvents with conductive dopants and liquid cesium. A specific charge range from 50 to 70,000 C/kg has been obtained. Investigations of energy loss and particle formation mechanisms were made using retarding potential techniques. Results indicated that heating effects cause droplet evaporation in the accelerating and/or drift region. A 50-hour life test of a bipolar thrustor was successfully completed. Capillary emitter potentials were +4.4 kV and -5.8 kV with average currents of +150 microamps and -154 microamps. Thrustor power was 1.55W with a power-to-thrust ratio of about 20W/mlb at measured thrust levels greater than 70 micro-lb. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1967
- Accession Number
- AD0821066
Entities
People
- Arthur Y. Yahiku
- John Mahoney
- Julius Perel
- R. David Moore
Organizations
- Xerox