Two-Dimensional Particle-in-Cell Simulation of a Hall Thruster

Abstract

Summary form only given. The acceleration channel of a plasma thruster utilizing Hall effect has been numerically simulated by using an axisymmetric two-dimensional (r,z) particle-in-cell (PIC) model with Monte-Carlo collision (MCC) method. The dynamics of electrons and ions are treated with PIC method with the time scale of electrons in order to investigate the particle transport and to calculate the specific impulse. The charged particles are coupled with Poisson's equation. Xe neutrals are injected from the inside of the anode and experience elastic, excitation, and ionization collisions with electrons and are scattered by ions. These collisions are simulated by using an MCC model. As the ionization rate is enough high to affect the density profile of neutrals, the dynamics of neutral gas is also simulated by using fluid model. This is more realistic than the previous simulations for Hall thruster. The nonuniformity of the neutral density profile plays an important role in the dynamics of charged particles. The effect of secondary electron emission at the dielectric wall is also considered in this model.