Small plasma thrusters are currently in development for trajectory adjustment and local maneuvers of space craft and satellites. Since high reliability of the pulse power system is essential, prolongation of electrode life-time is sought, limitations coming from plasma particle erosion of the surfaces. In the long term, plasma propulsion should play a key role in advanced propulsion systems for use in space exploration beyond the moon, e.g., for the Mars mission. The plasma neutron source represents an important candidate for various surveillance applications, for example, for luggage inspection in airports. Anticipated applications require reliable, low cost machines that are simple to operate and involve minimum radioactivity involvement.
Some applications require easy device transportation.
Magnetohydrodynamics for Metal Processing MHD technology developed for power generation can be applied to the processing of molten metals, e.g., for metal purification or atomization. This application of MHD will be aided by the development of high-temperature superconductors that will allow the use of large metal handling magnets that will not consume enormous amounts of power or require liquid helium.