Iodine Plasma (Electric Propulsion) Interaction with Spacecraft Materials
Abstract
This proposal will investigate the effect of iodine plasma interactions on spacecraft materials and measure the actual impact at space like conditions, and to quantify the potential accumulation of iodine film on the surfaces leading to shorting the dielectric surfaces, changing radiator emissivities, and erosion on optical coatings, antennas, and solar arrays. Iodine is a very attractive propellant to replace Xenon, because it is in a solid state, do not require high pressure tanks limiting the amount of total impulse, iodine density three times those of xenon. However, iodine interaction with the materials can create problems.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Mar 23, 2016
- Source ID
- FA95501510371
Entities
People
- Richard Branam
Organizations
- Air Force Office of Scientific Research
- United States Air Force
- University of Alabama