Parametric studies of the Hall current plasma thruster

Abstract

The Hall current plasma thruster accelerates a plasma jet by an axial electric field and an applied radial magnetic field in an annular ceramic channel. A relatively large current density (>0.1 A/cm2) can be obtained as the acceleration mechanism is not limited by space charge effects. Such a device can be used as a small rocket engine on board spacecraft with the advantage of a large jet velocity compared to conventional rocket engines (10000–30000 m/s versus 2000–4800 m/s). An experimental Hall thruster was constructed and operated in a broad range of operating conditions and under various configuration variations. Electrical, magnetic and plasma diagnostics, and as well accurate thrust and gas flow rate measurements, have been used to investigate the dependence of thruster behavior on the applied voltage, gas flow rate, magnetic field, channel geometry and wall material. The studies conducted so far have demonstrated a significant effect of channel material on thruster electrical characteristics and the existence of an optimal channel length for a given flow rate. Representative results highlighting these findings are presented.