Physics
Scientific paper
Oct 2004
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2004esasp.555e..31f&link_type=abstract
Proceedings of the 4th International Spacecraft Propulsion Conference (ESA SP-555). 2-9 June, 2004, Chia Laguna (Cagliari), Sard
Physics
Scientific paper
As spacecrafts becomes increasingly smaller miniaturization of propulsion systems is necessary. Here we present a novel concept for a Field Emission Electrical Propulsion (FEEP) system fabricated on a silicon wafer substrate using Micro Electro Mechanical System (MEMS) technologies. The use of silicon wafers and MEMS technologies allows for the fabrication of devices with feature sizes in the micrometer range. The device consists of a liquid metal source, a capillary and an acceleration grid. The electrical field causes the liquid metal to form a Taylor cone at the end of the capillary. When the electrical field is sufficiently strong, field evaporation occurs and metal ions are emitted from the apex of the cone and accelerated towards the grid. As positive ions are emitted the space craft builds up negative charge. In order to cancel out the negative charge we have incorporated an electron emitter in the design.
Flaron A. W. R.
Hales J. H.
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