Laser Thermal Propulsion.
Abstract
The principal objective of this research investigation is to determine experimentally the effects of a forced convection environment and optical geometry on the stability, fractional power absorption, plasma structure, and fluid mixing in a laser sustained plasma (lsp). A continuous, 1.5 kW, axial flow, carbon dioxide laser was used to create the LSP in a cylindrical quartz flow channel. The convection flow field surrounding the plasma controlled by the volume flow trhough the test chamber, and the optical geometry was determined by the focal length of the lens. Digital images of the plasma in selected narrow wavelength intervals were obtained using a calibrated, CID digital camera and a VICOM digital image processing computer. These images were then Abel inverted to give a spatial plasma emission coefficient which determined the spatial distribution of the plasma temperature. Data were obtained for argon plasmas at the nominal pressure of two atmospheres and four different mean incident flow velocities from 0.4 to 2.9 m/s. The nominal incident laser power was 1 kW. Detailed examination of the complex interactions of the various energy absorption and loss mechanisms will lead to a more complete understanding of the processes which control plasma stability, fractional power absorption and mixing in the laser sustained plasma. Keywords: Laser propulsion; Laser sustained plasmas; Plasma spectroscopy; Argon plasma.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 21, 1984
- Accession Number
- ADA166228
Entities
People
- Dennis Keefer
Organizations
- University of Tennessee Space Institute