Modelling of an improved positive corona thruster and actuator

Abstract

In this work we are going to perform a simulation of a positive corona discharge in nitrogen gas, using two different asymmetric capacitor geometries. We intend to increase the highest ion wind velocities and electrostatic propulsion forces on the considered structures. In our model, the used positive ion source is a small diameter wire, which generates a positive corona discharge directed to the ground electrodes. By applying the fluid dynamic and electrostatic theories, all hydrodynamic and electrostatic forces will be computed in an attempt to demonstrate the greater performance of the new developed geometries.