Analysis of the plasma transport in numerical simulations of helicon plasma thrusters

The accurate simulation of the plasma transport in helicon sources is a key aspect to improve design Helicon Plasma Thrusters (HPTs). Specifically, 3D-VIRTUS code was proven provide satisfactory estimations propulsive performance realistic HPTs (difference between measures and numerical thrust <30%). Nonetheless, further investigations are needed deepen influence that chemistry model, formulation energy equation, definition diffusion coefficients have on results simulation. First, quantitative analysis has been conducted simplified configuration HPT study each phenomenon separately. Second, generalized fluid model benchmarked against density performed source. radiative decay reactions affect estimation (e.g., thrust) up 40%. quasi-isotherm equation affects electron density) 30%. Accounting for anomalous or defining classically does not major effect varies less than 20%). provides density, which within uncertainty band (i.e., differences <20%).