Flowing DPF Design for Propulsion Experiments

Abstract

Recent studies show the Dense Plasma Focus (DPF) to be a viable candidate for use as a long-range space propulsion system with a high power-to- weight ratio. This Air Force contract provided support for study and modification of the University of Illinois (UI) DPF to develop a basic thrust experiment. A key aspect of such a system is to employ gas injection into the DPF electrode region, as opposed to the static fill technique commonly employed in present experimental devices. This report describes the design and initial operation of a prototype gas -puff injection facility, reviews preliminary results, and details plans for future use. The projected performance of a future propulsion system using this technique is also examined. A list of the publications and conference presentations based on research done under this contract is included. Dense Plasma Focus (DPF), Fusion propulsion, MPD thrusters.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Aug 01, 1993
Accession Number
ADA274973

Entities

People

  • B. A. Temple
  • G. H. Miley
  • H. Kislev
  • J. B. Javedani
  • R. T. Nachtrieb

Organizations

  • University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force
  • Computers
  • Construction
  • Contracts
  • Electric Propulsion
  • Electrodes
  • Engineering
  • Geometry
  • Measurement
  • Nuclear Engineering
  • Piezoelectric Polymers
  • Plasma Accelerators
  • Propulsion Systems
  • Space Propulsion
  • Spark Gaps
  • Thrusters
  • Time Intervals

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Electrical Engineering
  • Pulsed Power and Plasma Physics.
  • Technical Research and Report Writing.

Technology Areas

  • Space
  • Space - Hall-Effect Thruster