High Emissivity Arcjet Thruster Anodes

Award Information

Agency: Department of Defense	Branch: Air Force	Award ID: 20057	Program Year/Program: 1994 / SBIR
Agency Tracking Number: 20057	Solicitation Year: N/A	Solicitation Topic Code: N/A	Solicitation Number: N/A

Small Business Information: TECHNICAL RESEARCH ASSOC., INC.
P.O. Box 15278 Honolulu, HI 96830
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Woman-Owned: Yes

Minority-Owned: No

HUBZone-Owned: No

Phase 2: Fiscal Year: 1994

Title: High Emissivity Arcjet Thruster Anodes

Agency / Branch: DOD / USAF

Contract: N/A

Award Amount: $375,000.00

Abstract:
High-power ammonia arcjet thrusters are being investigated as primary propulsion systems for carrying satellites into high altitude orbits. As a method to enhance the power levels and efficiency of the engine, the thermal emissivity of the outer anode surface must be substantially enhanced. Ideally, the anode material should be low density, both highly electrically and thermally conductive, and be chemically compatible with the reactive propulsion gases. The proposed research will investigate anode materials fabricated from directionally aligned carbon/carbon (C/C) composite. The inside surfaces of the plenum chamber, constrictor throat, and expansion nozzle will be coated with a layer of conductive tungsten metal to serve as the arc attachment surface and to protect the C/C composite surface will also ensure effective radiation of the heat flux generated by the arcjet plasma.

Principal Investigator:
Dr. Jared Lee Sommer
8014854994

Business Contact:

Small Business Information at Submission:

Technical Research Associates,
2257 South 1100 East Salt Lake City, UT 84106

EIN/Tax ID:

DUNS: N/A

Number of Employees:

Woman-Owned: No

Minority-Owned: No

HUBZone-Owned: No