Anomalous electron mobility modeling in Hall thrusters

Accurate modeling of the anomalous electron mobility is crucial for successful simulation of Hall thrusters. Existing computational models for the anomalous electron mobility are used to simulate the UM/AFRL P5 Hall thruster in a 2D axisymmetric hybrid PIC-MCC code. Comparison to experimental results indicates that while these computational models can be tuned to reproduce the correct thrust or discharge current, it is very difficult to match all integrated performance parameters (thrust, power, discharge current, etc.) simultaneously. Furthermore, multiple configurations of these computational models can produce reasonable integrated performance parameters. Mean centerline potential profiles from these simulations are presented to provide physical insight into the relationship between the electron mobility and the spatial variation of the plasma potential.