Development and testing of a low-current applied-field magnetoplasmadynamic thruster with a rectangular discharge channel

Abstract

AbstractThis study explores the possibility of miniaturizing magnetoplasmadynamic thrusters (MPDTs) to significantly lower power and discharge current levels compared to most conventional MPDTs. A design alternative for MPDTs using a discharge channel with a rectangular cross-section is presented that enables the implementation of strong external magnetic fields to increase the applied-field Lorentz force. The thruster concept uses heaterless calcium aluminate electride (C12A7:e-) hollow cathodes as the electron source. A prototype of the concept intended for the low-amp current range generates thrust in the low millinewton range with a specific impulse ranging between 400 s and 1200 s at power levels below 500 W but shows high thermal power losses to the anode. A further miniaturized version of the concept intended for the sub-amp current range is thermally more sustainable but requires high mass flow rates to achieve a stable discharge, limiting the achievable specific impulse.