Electrically-Actuated Valve for Electrospray Thrusters

Propulsion systems, such as electro spray thrusters, may include an electrically actuated valve to permit a selective flow of propellant to a thruster. The valve may be located and arranged such that it physically separates a propellant, such as a source of ions, from a thruster of the propulsion system. In some embodiments, the application of a voltage potential to the valve may wet a plurality of through holes formed in the valve with the propellant such that the propellant flows through the valve to the thruster. After the valve has been opened, the propulsion system may be operated normally.

Departments: Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics
Technology Areas: Electronics & Photonics: Quantum Technology / Energy & Distribution: Electrochemical Devices

  • propulsion systems including an electrically actuated valve
    Patent Cooperation Treaty | Published application
  • propulsion systems including an electrically actuated valve
    United States of America | Granted | 11,346,329

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