Development of an engineering optimization tool for miniature pulsed plasma thrusters

Abstract

Pulsed Plasma Thrusters (PPT) are an established technology for compact thrust propulsion systems. Although PPT optimization has been performed previously it requires complex numerical codes. Although the scaling laws have been suggested they mainly applicable for large thrusters when edge effects can be neglected. A new 0D pulsed inductive acceleration model has been developed which links together the dynamics of the current sheet with the plasma dimensions and ionization processes. The model novelty is in a self-consistent estimation of the plasma sheet properties (temperature, density, thickness) driven by the magnetic pinch pressure and propellant ablation together with its simplicity. Parametric studies have been performed in an attempt to arrive at modified scaling laws for small PPTs