Computational Magneto-Hydro Dynamics of a Magnetic Flux Compression Reaction Chamber

G Romanelli, A. Mignone, Angelo Cervone

Research output: Chapter in Book/Conference proceedings/Edited volumeConference contributionScientificpeer-review

Abstract

Pulsed fusion propulsion might finally revolutionise manned space exploration by providing an affordable and relatively fast access to interplanetary destinations. However, such systems are still in an early development phase and one of the key areas requiring further investigations is the operation of the magnetic flux compression reaction chamber, the device meant to exploit the fusion energy and generate thrust. The reaction is ignited at the focus of an open parabolic chamber, enclosed by a series of coaxial superconducting coils that apply a magnetic field. The field, beside confining the reaction and preventing any contact between hot fusion plasma and chamber structure, is also meant to reflect the explosion and push plasma out of the rocket. The change of plasma axial momentum generates a thrust in reaction. This working principle has yet to be extensively verified, and computational Magneto-Hydro Dynamics (MHD) is a viable option to achieve that. This work is one of the first detailed ideal-MHD analysis of a a multi-coil parabolic reaction chamber and has been completed employing PLUTO, a freely distributed computational code developed at the Physics Department of the University of Turin. The results are thus a preliminary verification of the chamber concept and its performance. Nonetheless, some plasma leakage through the coils have been highlighted. Therefore, further investigations are required to validate the chamber design. Implementing a more accurate physical model (e.g. Hall-MHD or relativistic-MHD) is thus mandatory, and PLUTO shows the capabilities to achieve that. Keywords: fusion rocket, computational MHD, magnetic nozzle

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationProceedings of the 67th International Astronautical Congress (IAC)
Subtitle of host publicationGuadalajara, Mexico
PublisherIAF
Number of pages13
Publication statusPublished - 2016
Event67th International Astronautical Congress - Guadalajara, Mexico
Duration: 26 Sept 201630 Sept 2016
Conference number: 37
https://www.iac2016.org/

Conference

Conference67th International Astronautical Congress
Abbreviated title67th IAC
Country/TerritoryMexico
CityGuadalajara
Period26/09/1630/09/16
Internet address

Keywords

  • fusion rocket
  • computational MHD
  • magnetic nozzle

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