@bort6414

11 months ago

Given the fact that ionic propulsion is essentially the operational principles of a magnetron applied in reverse, ever considered doing any research on magnetrons to try and improve the power density of your ionic thrusters? For example, the addition of permanent magnet arrays, improving the anode surface to increase electron mobility by texturing with carbon nanotubes, and even heating up the anode element to further increase electron excitation could potentially have a positive effect on the thrust.

Also, try a liberal application of Corona dope to the cathode surfaces. The anode needs maximum electron mobility so it must remain clean, adding a thin film of insulation to the cathode could enable an increase in voltage you can apply or allow a tighter spacing of anode and cathode, increasing electron speed and thus increasing power density.

Even further, you could try to exploit the process of electroplating or even electroless plating to produce anodes and cathodes of even further reduced weight, since the bulk mass of the anode and cathode have no significant impact in the power output of an electrostatic device. Try using very fine-haired plastic brush or other high surface area object with significant protrusions to increase corona discharge, and paint that object with a thin film of a conductive paint such as nickel or graphite paint, then treat with nanoparticles such as graphene or MWCNT, then finally add a metallic layer of copper using electroplating for increased conductivity, durability and mobility.

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