High Density Magnetized Toroid Formation and Translation within XOCOT: An Annular Field Reversed Configuration Plasma Concept

An annular field reversed configuration (FRC) plasma concept is being developed by the Univeristy of Michigan and AFRL to investigate inductively-coupled high power electric propulsion. Presented is the continued exploration of an annular FRC with specific focus on main bank discharges, magnetized plasma toroid formation, and preliminary investigation into plasma translation. Additional detail is given towards discharge parameter space, optimization of energy input/translation, and predictive scaling laws of magnetic flux, plasma density, and plasma energy content. The discharge parameter space covers multiple charging energies, voltages, and timing as well as multiple propellants and pre-ionization techniques. Finally, a case for FRC formation is made by investigating magnetic field (and flux) reversal in the coil as well as downstream magnetic field modification by a high density magnetized plasma. Graduate Student, Aerospace Engineering, [email protected]. $ Professor and Laboratory Director, Aerospace Engineering, Associate Dean, Horace H. Rackham School of Graduate Studies, [email protected]. † Senior Research Scientist, Group Lead Spacecraft Branch, AFRL/PRSS. [email protected] ‡ Research Scientist, Spacecraft Branch . [email protected] Distribution APPROVED through STINFO process as of July 2007. Distribution A: Approved for public release; distribution unlimited.