Recent progress and perspectives of space electric propulsion systems based on smart nanomaterials

Abstract

Drastic miniaturization of electronics and ingression of next-generation nanomaterials into space technology have provoked a renaissance in interplanetary flights and near-Earth space exploration using small unmanned satellites and systems. As the next stage, the NASA’s 2015 Nanotechnology Roadmap initiative called for new design paradigms that integrate nanotechnology and conceptually new materials to build advanced, deep-space-capable, adaptive spacecraft. This review examines the cutting edge and discusses the opportunities for integration of nanomaterials into the most advanced types of electric propulsion devices that take advantage of their unique features and boost their efficiency and service life. Finally, we propose a concept of an adaptive thruster.

Plasma instability of magnetically enhanced vacuum arc thruster

“…Larmor radius and viscosity effects are not considered. 6. Electron inertia can be neglected for the range of frequency considered.…”

3D‐Printed Multilayered Reinforced Material System for Gas Supply in CubeSats and Small Satellites

“…This, in turn, impels the improvement of small satellites of the CubeSat standard. [10,11] In spite of the noteworthy advancements made in CubeSat and the innovative work in the development of small satellites during the recent decade, some principal materials-related issues still remain. [10,11] In spite of the noteworthy advancements made in CubeSat and the innovative work in the development of small satellites during the recent decade, some principal materials-related issues still remain.…”

Monte Carlo modeling of low-energy electron-induced secondary electron emission yields in micro-architected boron nitride surfaces

“…Under extreme operating environments, the discharge channels and cathode insulators used in Hall thrusters require a very demanding set of properties. Typically, the range of materials of interest in EP & PP include refractory metals, such as W, Mo, and their alloys, ceramic composites, such as BN and Al 2 O 3 , high-strength copper alloys, and carbon-carbon composites [5]. These classes of materials possess great mechanical strength, thermal shock resistance, refractoriness and machinability.…”

“…This points to the suitability of these micro-architected surface concepts to mitigate SEE-related issues in compact electric propulsion devices.Keywords: Monte Carlo simulation; electron-insulator interactions; secondary electron emission; spacecraft charging Recently, demonstration designs have been developed, including surface architectures based on metal micro-spears, micro-nodules and micro-velvets [7][8][9][10][11]. See reviews on the topic for further information [5,[12][13][14][15][16].…”