The goal of this research is to develop a mathematical model which describes the physical properties occurring in magnetoplasmadynamic (MPD) rocket engines. The validity of the model will be tested by comparing its predictions to experimental results and its use in predicting new characteristics of MPD engines. The research is divided into three areas: analysis, numerical/experiment, and prediction. In the analysis phase, fluid, dissociation, electromagnetic, and state equations will be used to determine the behavior of MPD engines. Dimensional analysis permits the determination of combination of important parameters. The second phase of the research is the numerical solution of the equations of motion. Experimental test results will be duplicated by computer to verify the validity of the model. The final phase involves the prediction of performance of MPD engines under conditions which have never before been tested. Using the model to predict in advance the performance of a new MPD engine is efficient and could result in considerable savings in cost of design.
