Analysis of Colloid Thrusters for Nano-satellite Propulsion

나노인공위성 추진용 콜로이드 추력기 해석

The mode transition from cone-jet to dripping in colloid thruster operation has been analytically investigated. The transition has been predicted by the dynamic behavior of a liquid drop at the tip of the cone-jet. Conservation laws are applied to determine the upward motion of the drop, and an instability model of electrified jets is used to determine the jet breakup. Finally, for the first time, the analysis enables prediction of the transition in terms of the Weber number and electric Bond number. The predictions are in good agreement with experimental data.