Numerical analysis on macro-characteristics of pulsed plasma thruster

In order to study the macro-characteristics of pulsed plasma thruster (PPT) operation process, a computational model for electromagnetic, aerodynamic coupling acceleration mechanism and analytic method for the late time ablation (LTA) were formed on the basis of traditional slug model. Numerical simulation was carried out on the foundation of LES-6, LES-8/9 experimental PPT. Simulation results show a good agreement with experimental data. It indicates that only a small fraction(LES-6 about 10%, LES-8/9 about 28%)of the total ablated mass is produced during the current pulse and has the opportunity to be ionized and magnetically accelerated to high exhaust speeds(About 31.6km/s). The rest gradually evaporates during much later times as a neutral gas that expands at relatively low speed(About 460~680m/s). Electromagnetic acceleration is the most important source of thruster impulse(LES-6 about 77%, LES-8/9 about 86%). Enhancing of electromagnetic contribution and reduction of LTA effect would significantly improve the efficiency of the thruster.