Abstract

Ionic liquid electrospray thrusters are notable for their small size, low mass, and high specific impulse, making them ideal for use in micro/nano satellites. This study evaluates the lifetime of an electrowetting ionic liquid electrospray thruster. Experimental results indicate that the decrease in emission current is attributed to electrochemical reactions that increase the curvature of the emitter tips and the increased flow resistance. The online replenishment of insufficient propellant is achieved using an electrowetting device, which restores the emission current. Over the entire test period, the thruster operated for a total of 331.81 h, consuming 2.68083 g of propellant. This study offers valuable insights for improving the lifetime and total impulse of ionic liquid electrospray thrusters.

Full Text
Paper version not known

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.