An electrokinetic actuator for a propulsion system is described. The actuator includes an array of channels, with each channel having an inlet and an outlet. A reservoir is included that contains an ionic solution of particles. A first electrode proximate to (or deposited at) the inlet and a second electrode proximate to (or deposited at) the outlet are connected to a voltage source. The voltage source and electrodes apply a voltage across the length of the channels to generate an electric field parallel to each channel. The electric field causes an electro-osmotic flow of ions from the reservoir to the outlet producing electrokinetic thrust at the outlet. By varying the concentration of the ionic solution and the magnitude of the electric field, the electro-osmotic flow of ions is controlled.


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    Title :

    Electrokinetic nanothrusters and applications thereof


    Contributors:

    Publication date :

    2016-02-02


    Type of media :

    Patent


    Type of material :

    Electronic Resource


    Language :

    English


    Classification :

    IPC:    H02N Elektrische Maschinen, soweit nicht anderweitig vorgesehen , ELECTRIC MACHINES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR / B63G OFFENSIVE OR DEFENSIVE ARRANGEMENTS ON VESSELS , Angriffs- oder Verteidigungsanordnungen auf Schiffen / B63H Schiffsantrieb oder Steuerung der Schiffe , MARINE PROPULSION OR STEERING / F03H PRODUCING A REACTIVE PROPULSIVE THRUST, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR , Erzeugung von Vortriebskraft [Schub] nach dem Prinzip des Rückstoßes, soweit nicht anderweitig vorgesehen



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