Introduction to Pulsed Power Producing Pulsed Ion Beam-Driven Ablation Plasma for Space Propulsion Applications

Abstract

This paper presents the modest results of ablation plasma and its behavior. This ablation plasma is produced by irradiating a 50-µm-Al foil with a pulse ion beam generated by a pulsed power generator. This kind of pulsed power generator reveals the significant weakness of its weight if the study is to apply to space propulsion. The modest technology using a more compact pulsed power generator is introduced. To investigate the feasibility of ablation plasma produced by this compact pulsed power system, a one-dimensional hydrodynamic model is employed to clarify the ablation plasma formation process and its properties when a pulsed ion beam interacts with an Al target. Physical parameters in terms of ablated plasma temperature, pressure, and the energy deposition distributions are presented. The plasma velocity, as well as its momentum-producing capability, is also investigated.