Grid-Free Electrostatic Plasma Simulations
Abstract
This report summarizes work done between September 2007 and June 2008 related to the development of a set of grid-free simulation tools for problems in plasma dynamics. As noted in the abstract on page one, the research objectives are: (1) to develop a grid-free field solver, fluid model, and kinetic model, (2) to evaluate these tools in comparison with traditional mesh-based methods, and (3) to demonstrate the capability of the grid-free approach in an application of USAF interest. The past year's work has focused on: (1) Grid-free 3D Direct Simulation Monte Carlo and optimal parallel implementation, (2) application of grid-free Direct Simulation Monte Carlo methods to the continuous wave formation of a Bose Einstein condensate and Hypersonic Flows and, (3) Validation of grid-free agents MONICO and G2. (4) Boundary integral methods and Regularized Particles, (5) Boundary Integral Corrected PIC-An Advanced Subcell Method (6) Extended the treecode to kernels of the from re cr, ideal for spacecraft plume simulations. The work accomplished has provided several key results, as described below. Basic plasma science plays an increasingly significant role in applications of importance to the United States Air Force (USAF). These include the study of satellites and how they interact with an ion engine, the use of electronic tethers to protect satellites and how solar eruptions effect satellites. Additional examples include the basic physics of magnetrons for use in directed energy (DE) systems, the prediction and prevention of arc formation in DE systems, understanding intense laserplasma interaction as it relates to space propulsion, non-destructive materials testing for turbine blades in aircraft, and the study of Penning traps as a potential way of trapping anti-protons and positrons to create and store anti-hydrogen as a fuel, etc.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 09, 2008
- Accession Number
- ADA483901
Entities
People
- Andrew Christlieb
Organizations
- Michigan State University