Vertically aligned carbon nanotubes as the sputter resist in space propulsive systems

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2004

Department

Department of Mechanical Engineering-Engineering Mechanics; Department of Physics

Abstract

Two-types of vertically aligned multi-walled carbon nanotubes (VA-MWNTs) are evaluated as the protective coatings against ion erosion in electric propulsion systems. A series of experiments have been conducted to understand the erosion rate and erosion mechanism of these VA-MWNTs. These experiments were carried out with Xe propellant at an ion current density of 5 mA/cm2. We found that the erosion rates of both types of VA-MWNTs were changing with time. Such a nonlinear erosion process is explained according to a possible erosion mechanism.

Publisher's Statement

© Materials Research Society 2005. Publisher's version of record: https://doi.org/10.1557/PROC-851-NN2.2

Publication Title

MRS Proceedings Online

Share

COinS