High velocity gas flow generation and acceleration of microparticles by means of high current pulse discharge [electrothermal launchers]

This paper describes the results of experimental study of electrothermal launcher operational regimes to be used for the acceleration of powder materials microparticles with dimensions in micrometer and submicrometer ranges. Gas and plasma flows dynamics in the launcher barrel and in the space between the barrel butt-end and the substrate have been investigated on the basis of combined approach with application of piezoceramic sensors of pressure, photodiodes, photomultipliers as well as the high speed and shadow photography methods. Particular attention was directed to the study of the flow space composition. It appears that for the purpose of powder materials acceleration at a given temperature regime the most suitable flow region is its low temperature part, which is formed during the head shock wave propagation inside and outside the launcher barrel.