Abstract
In this study, the body force generated by atmospheric positive and negative corona discharges were investigated using a wire-cylinder configuration experimentally and numerically. We provided new insight into the atmospheric electric thruster by introducing a nonlinear term in body force constituent the thrust of the system. It was observed that the direction of both body forces and electric winds is always from the wire to the cylinder irrespective of the applied voltage polarity. It was illustrated that the corresponding thrusts and the electric wind of the positive corona are larger than that of the negative corona discharge. We took into account the nonlinear mechanisms to explain the difference in thrust forces in positive and negative corona discharges. To elucidate the origin of the body force in corona discharges, we performed 2-D simulations via COMSOL Multiphysics and MATLAB software. The results of the numerical simulation showed that in addition to the linear body force (Coulomb force) a strong nonlinear body force is generated around the wire electrode that plays a crucial role in corona thrusters. To verify the direction and magnitude of the thrust, a simple theory was proposed based on variable mass systems and confirmed by published experimental works.
Generation of Porous Alumina Layers in a Polydimethylsiloxane/Hydrogen Peroxide Medium on Aluminum Substrate in Corona Discharges