Abstract
An effect of cross-section in electrodes on thrust efficiency has been studied by using an MHD accelerator, which consists of a pulsed-power system, an MHD acceleration channel, a permanent magnet, diagnostic systems, and a model rocket engine. In order to estimate the thrust efficiency, temperature and velocity of combustion gas were measured by fitting the radiation temperature assuming blackbody and time-of-flight method. The results indicated that the thrust efficiency of the pulsed-MHD accelerator is improved when the cross-section of electrodes is decreased. Because of the higher current density generates the stronger electromagnetic force for the smaller electrode.
