A theoretical thrust density limit for Hall thrusters

Journal Article · 29 March 2023 · Journal of Electric Propulsion

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s44205-023-00048-9 · OSTI ID:1964203

Simmonds, Jacob; Raitses, Yevgeny; Smolyakov, Andrei

Abstract Hall Thrusters typically operate at thrust densities on the order of 10 N/m $$^2$$ ${}^2$ , which appear to be orders of magnitude below the thrust density limits suggested in previous literature. These limits have been considered here and each component of thrust density is analyzed to demonstrate the relative contribution to the total thrust density. Dependencies of the thrust density limits upon the thruster geometry, electron mobility, and the applied magnetic field are revealed and compared with experimental measurements of thrust density. This analysis reveals that with conventional applied magnetic field strengths, Hall thruster thrust density appears to be on the order of 1000 N/m $$^2$$ ${}^2$ . It is shown that this limit can be further increased through higher applied magnetic fields, applied voltage, and suppression of anomalous electron transport. This suggests Hall thrusters can be made much more compact and operated at higher power densities, given improvements to the thermal management and materials.

• Research Organization: Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL), Princeton, NJ (United States)
• Sponsoring Organization: US Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR); USDOE
• Grant/Contract Number: AC02-09CH11466
• OSTI ID: 1964203
• Journal Information: Journal of Electric Propulsion, Journal Name: Journal of Electric Propulsion Journal Issue: 1 Vol. 2; ISSN 2731-4596
• Publisher: Springer Science + Business MediaCopyright Statement
• Country of Publication: Country unknown/Code not available
• Language: English