Theoretical characterization of electron transport in partially magnetized plasmas
Abstract
As cross-field plasma devices have become prominent in plasma processing and space propulsion, predictive modeling capabilities of the cross-field electron transport are now imperative. One particular sci- entific challenge is understanding the mechanisms of electron transport in partially magnetized plasmas, where electrons are magnetized and ions are not. The research objectives of this project are to develop a time-dependent full fluid model derived from the first-principles gas kinetic equations and to understand the effects of detailed physical processes, such as inertia effects and plasma sheaths, on the electron transport properties in low temperature magnetized plasmas. Full-scale first-principles kinetic simulations can cap- ture such effects but are currently infeasible in modeling multiscale plasma dynamics. The proposed research effort will focus on modeling global behavior of the discharge plasma in a Hall effect thruster while simulta- neously resolving fine scale phenomena using a full fluid electron model. The high-fidelity fluid model will enable assessment of nonlinear physical processes, including inertia and geometric effects, high-frequency oscillations, and plasma-wall interactions in the presence of magnetic fields. The proposed framework will be developed in 1D and 2D flow configurations and compared to existing numerical models and experimen- tal data. The anticipated outcome is an improved understanding of the electron transport mechanisms and anomalous cross-field electron mobility in low temperature magnetized plasmas. The potential impact of this proposed research is providing a predictive modeling framework that can help improve performance, capabilities, and controllability of cross-field plasma sources.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Apr 09, 2018
- Source ID
- FA95501810090
Entities
People
- Kentaro Hara
Organizations
- Air Force Office of Scientific Research
- Texas Engineering Experiment Station
- United States Air Force