Simulations of current coupling in ion beam-neutralizer interactions

Neutralization of ion beams in electric propulsion applications is a well-known phenomenon. The physics behind the robust matching of ion and electron currents and densities, are not. As electric propulsion devices move into micro and macro regimes with colloids, FEEPs, and thruster arrays, thruster-neutralizer interactions are under increasing scrutiny. A series of 2D simulations using PIC codes are presented, detailing starting and steady state interactions. It is shown that the expectations of full current coupling of electrons to the beam is not seen, but there is similar coupling behavior exhibited. Numerical mechanisms for coupling the current to the beam are examined for effect on coupling behavior.
資料番号: AA0049206062
レポート番号: JAXA-SP-05-001E