Plasma Simulations by Example

Brieda, Lubos

doi:10.1201/9780429439780

Cited by 31 publications

(25 citation statements)

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“…Normally it can be assumed that all particles share the same weight, and this assumption is kept throughout this study for generality. The specific weight is directly linked to the number density of the particles being simulated (Equation 20) [4]. Figure 5 shows how utilizing a molecular specific weight between 1 × 10 6 and 5 × 10 5 will result in very similar results.…”

Section: Molecular Specific Weightmentioning

confidence: 92%

“…A kinetic approach is used throughout which, in comparison to fluid approaches, does not make any assumptions on the shape of the velocity distribution function (VDF) and instead allows it to develop consistently [4]. A constant particle specific weight is assumed for all simulations performed.…”

Section: Assumptions When Modelling Plasmamentioning

confidence: 99%

“…When 𝐾𝐾 𝑛𝑛 > 1 no collisions occur, and a free molecular flow exists (molecules are more likely to collide with the wall). When 𝐾𝐾 𝑛𝑛 is approximately 1, the distance between the collisions is similar to that of the characteristic length, so collisions occur but infrequently and the Maxwellian distribution function cannot be used with certainty [4].…”

Section: Knudsen Numbermentioning

confidence: 99%

“…The approach to solving the Boltzmann equation is to use a quasi-neutral solver (Equation 16). The assumption is that a state of quasi-neutrality is achieved in plasma thruster simulations due to the high densities in the core [4].…”

Section: Boltzmann Solvermentioning

confidence: 99%

“…To ensure the CFL condition when determining the time-step, the lowest value from Equations ( 17) and ( 18) is used [4]. The effect on the results of using different timesteps is demonstrated in Figures 3 & 4.…”

Section: Time-stepmentioning

confidence: 99%

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Comparison and Evaluation of Numerical Techniques and Physico-Chemical Algorithms for the Simulation of an Iodine and Xenon Powered Ion Thrusters

2022

IJM

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An electrostatic ion thruster, modelled on Busek's , is simulated numerically using the open-source software "Starfish". It is assumed that the thruster is in vacuum conditions propelling a CubeSat in low Earth orbit. Iodine is chosen here as the propellant under test. The results from modelling this relatively recent new fuel are compared to those of the standard propellant of xenon. The plasma in the ion thruster and the associated electric fields are simulated using a particle-based kinetic code in which the hybrid approach of Particle in Cell and Direct Simulation Monte Carlo methods has been used. In modelling these flows, elastic and inelastic collisions can occur involving charge and momentum exchanges. Such collision models use a number of assumptions, e.g., concerning the collisional cross-section area, and in this paper, we present results where the physico-chemical modelling is improved reducing the level of assumptions used. Results are also presented concerning the numerical methods used for the iterative convergence scheme, stochastic sampling, and the importance of the constraints for the mesh size and timestep. It is found that the most appropriate timestep is one which enables both the CFL condition and the highest frequency to be captured. The mesh size affects the choice of the solver being used; the largest the cell sizes the greater the assumption of quasi-neutral flow and thus areas of non-neutrality (such as in the surrounding shealth may be treated inadequately. The subsequent effects on the plume and the thrust produced of using different approaches in modelling the electron temperature distribution are also evaluated to produce a more rigorous modelling methodology.

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Section: Molecular Specific Weightmentioning

confidence: 92%

Section: Assumptions When Modelling Plasmamentioning

confidence: 99%

Section: Knudsen Numbermentioning

confidence: 99%

Section: Boltzmann Solvermentioning

confidence: 99%

Section: Time-stepmentioning

confidence: 99%

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