Microinstabilities in High-Power MPD Systems: Preliminary Diagnostics
Abstract
The saturation of microinstabilities has been theorized to cause anomalous transport in MPD thrusters. However, calculation of anomalous transport properties is an area which is still in its infancy. It is the object of this paper to discuss the importance of anomalous transport in MPD thruster operation, how microinstabilities are related to anomalous transport, the types of microinstabilities most likely to occur, and at what locations in the MPD thruster. First, preliminary measurements were made of mean plasma properties and fluctuations using imbedded probe techniques in the plume and internal locations of a MW level MPD thruster operating near, but below, global onset conditions using probe techniques. Analysis of these results as well as significant incidental results are discussed. Next, a kinetic theory method for calculating plasma transport properties in a two-temperature, multiple species, non equilibrium plasma has been modified to account for anomalous transport.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 09, 1992
- Accession Number
- ADA265415
Entities
People
- Erik C. Bowman
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology