Abstract
The absorption of microwave energy by a gas within a waveguide is being investigated for use in an electrothermal propulsion device. Plasmas created within a waveguide propagate toward the source of microwave energy and, thus, must be stabilized by some means. A very simple and highly efficient way of stabilizing the plasma is inserting a bluff body made of dielectric material, such as boron nitride, into the flow. The plasma is then stabilized in the recirculation region behind the blunt body. The coupling mechanism between microwave energy and waveguide plasmas was investigated to yield a quantitative understanding of the dependency of the coupling efficiency on such parameters as mass flow rate, power level, and gas pressure. Maximum coupling efficiency values up to 90% could be obtained, being a strong function of the mass flow rate. Spectroscopic measurements yielded values for the electron temperature of the stabilized plasma between 12,000 and 12,800 K.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
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 callDisclaimer: 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.
