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Arcjet nozzle flow-field characterization by laser-induced fluorescence.
Applied Optics
|February 13, 2008
Summary
Laser-induced fluorescence measured atomic hydrogen properties in an arcjet thruster. Results show good agreement with models for velocity and temperature near the nozzle exit.
Area of Science:
- * Plasma diagnostics
- * Space propulsion
Background:
- * Radiatively cooled arcjet thrusters are crucial for in-space propulsion.
- * Accurate characterization of plasma properties within the thruster nozzle is essential for performance optimization.
Purpose of the Study:
- * To measure axial velocities, translational temperatures, and electron number densities in a 1-kW class arcjet thruster.
- * To compare experimental data with numerical modeling predictions.
Main Methods:
- * Laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) spectroscopy targeting the Balmer-alpha (Hα) transition of atomic hydrogen.
- * Doppler shift analysis for axial velocity determination.
- * Line-shape analysis for translational temperature and electron number density measurements.
Main Results:
- * Experimental measurements of axial velocities and translational temperatures near the nozzle exit show excellent agreement with numerical models.
- * Discrepancies were observed in translational temperatures upstream of the nozzle exit and in electron number densities.
- * The findings suggest limitations in current numerical models concerning recombination chemistry.
Conclusions:
- * Laser-induced fluorescence is a viable diagnostic technique for arcjet thruster characterization.
- * Current numerical models require refinement, particularly in simulating recombination chemistry, to accurately predict plasma properties throughout the nozzle.
- * Improved modeling will enhance the design and efficiency of arcjet propulsion systems.
