Transient reactive exhaust flow from a ring-symmetric HF/DF space laser
By: by Joseph Falcovitz
Contributors: Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Space Systems Academic Group
Publisher: Naval Postgraduate School; Available from National Technical Information Service
Published: 1987
Place of publication: Monterey, Calif; Springfield, Va
Language: eng
Number of pages: 45
Subjects: CHEMICAL LASERS; HYDROGEN FLUORIDE LASERS; SPACECRAFT; EXHAUST GASES
Other titles: NPS-72-87-002CR.
Description: Transient diffuser flow in an HF/DF laser is analyzed via a simplified model. A radial laser      configuration is assumed where the diffuser is idealized as a ring-symmetric channel of uniform      width. The outward radial flow following an abrupt start-up of diffuser inflow is computed      numerically using a GRP-type code for integrating the Euler equations, which include an      ongoing reaction of hydrogen recombination. A new kinetic scattering effect is suggested,      resulting from the recoil of an HF or DF molecule assisting as third body in the hydrogen      recombination reaction. The main conclusion is that transient diffuser plume flow effects do not      drastically aggravate the potential for contaminating backflow (HF + DF) caused by either      thermal or kinetic backscattering. Keywords: Laser exhaust; Spacecraft contamination;      Chemical laser; Exhaust plume, Hydrogen recombination; Transient flow.
Notes: Title from cover.

"NPS-72-87-002CR."

"March 1987."

AD A179 208.

Includes bibliographical references (p. 18-19).