Supersonic Plasma Flow Control Experiments
Abstract
A magneto aerodynamic channel was designed and constructed to investigate plasma flow control. Detailed, spatially resolved measurements of dc discharges in the channel freestream were obtained. The flow exaggerated nonuniformities in number density and conductivity. Conductivity was highest near the cathode, and air flow increased conductivity by 2 orders of magnitude near the cathode, compared to a no-flow discharge. There was no significant increase in translational temperature, except near electrode surfaces. There was some limited evidence of vibrational relaxation downstream. Longitudinal dc discharges were created between surface electrodes on a flat plate. Transverse magnetic fields applied parallel to the plate surface created Lorentz forces either into or out of the plate surface. With no applied magnetic field, the discharge increased surface pressure through boundary layer heating and subsequent viscous interaction. A Lorentz force directed into the plate inhibited surface pressure increases, and a Lorentz force in the opposite direction enhanced them. Although this is consistent with a Lorentz force acting on the fluid, joule heating is the dominant effect.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 2005
- Accession Number
- ADA457024
Entities
People
- J. A. Menart
- J. R. Hayes
- J. S. Shang
- Roger L. Kimmel
Organizations
- Air Force Research Laboratory