Piezoelectric transformer plasma source micro-thruster (PTPS-MT) optimization for nano-scale space propulsion applications

Summary form only given. A piezoelectric transformer plasma source micro-thruster (PTPS-MT) is being developed as an ion thruster for space propulsion applications. The PTPS-MT consists of a rf driven lithium niobate piezoelectric disc operating as a high voltage step-up transformer to ionize and accelerate plasma in a single self-contained package. A 400-1000 V input voltage was applied at the resonant frequency of a 10 mm × 2 mm piezoelectric disc to create a high voltage discharge capable of ionizing a background propellant. Acceleration of the resulting plasma was done through alternating RF fields creating a self-neutralizing system capable of producing thrust on the order of tens of micronewtons. Experiments were performed to determine operating parameters that improve propellant efficiency, operational life expectancy and thruster output. Results for each of these experiments are presented.