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Two-dimensional model of orificed micro-hollow cathode discharge for space application

Journal Article · · Physics of Plasmas
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1063/1.4818969· OSTI ID:22220692
; ;  [1];  [2]
  1. Department of Physics, Technion, 32000 Haifa (Israel)
  2. University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742-3511 (United States)
In this paper, we describe results of self-consistent two-dimensional (x-z) particle-in-cell simulations, with a Monte Carlo collision model, of an orificed micro-hollow cathode operating in a planar diode geometry. The model includes thermionic electron emission with Schottky effect, secondary electron emission due to cathode bombardment by the plasma ions, several different collision processes, and a non-uniform xenon background gas density in the cathode-anode gap. Simulated results showing behavior of the plasma density, potential distribution, and energy flux towards the hollow cathode and orifice walls, are discussed. In addition, results of simulations showing the effect of different Xe gas pressures, orifice size, and cathode voltage, on operation of the micro-hollow cathode are presented.
OSTI ID:
22220692
Journal Information:
Physics of Plasmas, Journal Name: Physics of Plasmas Journal Issue: 8 Vol. 20; ISSN PHPAEN; ISSN 1070-664X
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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