Toward predictive modeling of ExB plasma discharges
Abstract
This research programme is devoted to the development of physics models and modelling tools toward an understanding ofthe behavior of large scale coherent structures and anomalous transport in ExB plasma relevant to the electric propulsion. Weare using the reduced (simplified) theoretical models in combinations with fluid and kinetic simulations to address somespecific problems inspired and suggested by experimental observations, primarily from the Hall thruster and Penningdischarge experiments at Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory. Specifically, we have developed the model for breathingmodes including the effects of the external drive, have confirmed theoretically and experimentally the presence of gradientdriftdriven modes in the Penning discharge, have theoretically demonstrated the modes transitions and saturation of the driftdriven instabilities in Hall thrusters via the formation of large scale (spoke-like) structures and identified a novel mechanism ofthe anomalous electron transport in the region with low (or negligible axial electric field) such as the plume region.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 16, 2020
- Accession Number
- AD1105890
Entities
People
- A. I. Smolyakov
Organizations
- University of Saskatchewan