Large-angle xenon ion scattering in Xe-propelled electrostatic thrusters: differential cross sections

• Published in: Journal of physics. D, Applied physics Vol. 41; no. 16; pp. 165503 - 165503 (10)
• Main Authors: Chiu, Y-H, Dressler, R A, Levandier, D J, Houchins, C, Ng, C Y
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Bristol IOP Publishing 21.08.2008; Institute of Physics
• Subjects: Ab initio calculations; Atomic and molecular collision processes and interactions; Atomic and molecular physics; Calculations and mathematical techniques in atomic and molecular physics (excluding electron correlation calculations); Electronic structure of atoms, molecules and their ions: theory; Exact sciences and technology; Physics; Scattering of atoms, molecules and ions; Ab initio method; Differential cross sections; Elastic scattering; Xenon; Theoretical study; Atom ion collision; Ionic current; Experimental study; Boron Nitrides; Molybdenum; Sputtering; Ion beams; eV range; Doubly charged ion; Interaction potentials; Ab initio calculations; Xenon Atomic ions; Kinetic energy; Erosion

Elastic scattering between xenon ions and xenon atoms can produce ion currents at large angles with respect to the axis of electrostatic thrusters. Differential scattering cross sections are needed to properly predict off-axis currents that can cause significant material erosion due to sputtering. G...