Boundary-value problem for plasma centrifuge at arbitrary magnetic Reynolds numbers

Journal Article · Sun May 01 04:00:00 EDT 1977 · Phys. Rev., A; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevA.15.2108· OSTI ID:7222840

Wilhelm, H E; Hong, S H

We solve in closed form the boundary-value problem for the partial differential equations which describe the (azimuthal) rotation velocity and induced magnetic fields in a cylindrical plasma centrifuge with ring electrodes of different radii and an external, axial magnetic field. The electric field, current density, and velocity distributions are discussed in terms of the Hartmann number H and the magnetic Reynolds number R. For small Hall coefficients, ..omega..tau very-much-less-than 1, the induced magnetic field does not affect the plasma rotation. As a result of the Lorentz forces, the plasma rotates with speeds as high as 10/sup 5/ cm/sec around its axis of symmetry at typical conditions, so that the lighter (heavier) ion and atom components are enriched at (off) the center of the discharge cylinder.

• Research Organization: Department of Electrical Engineering, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523
• OSTI ID: 7222840
• Journal Information: Phys. Rev., A; (United States), Journal Name: Phys. Rev., A; (United States) Vol. 15:5; ISSN PLRAA
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY
700103* -- Fusion Energy-- Plasma Research-- Kinetics
BOUNDARY-VALUE PROBLEMS
CENTRIFUGES
CONCENTRATORS
ELECTRIC DISCHARGES
FLUID MECHANICS
HYDRODYNAMICS
ISOTOPE SEPARATION
MAGNETIC REYNOLDS NUMBER
MAGNETOHYDRODYNAMICS
MECHANICS
PLASMA
REYNOLDS NUMBER
SEPARATION PROCESSES