Journal Article

IMPULSE-2025-00114

http://join2-wiki.gsi.de/foswiki/pub/Main/Artwork/join2_logo100x88.png Neutron imaging investigation of additively manufactured tungsten nozzles for an arcjet deorbit system

Skalden, J. (Corresponding author) ; Ehresmann, M. ; Becatti, G. ; Schulz, M.MLZ* ; Gustschin, A. ; Rebelo-Kornmeier, J. ; Kis, Z. ; Szentmiklósi, L. ; Herdrich, G.

2025
Springer International Publishing Cham

Please use a persistent id in citations: doi:10.1007/s44205-025-00150-0

Abstract: The Institute of Space Systems is currently developing a deorbit module based on thermal arcjet technology to allow fast orbit decay at end-of-life, with a focus on megaconstellation satellites. By employing additive manufacturing with tungsten, improved nozzle geometries can lead to a gain in overall performance. However, reproducibility is an ongoing concern for additively manufactured parts. Together with the Heinz Maier-Leibnitz Zentrum (MLZ) and the Budapest Neutron Centre of the Centre for Energy Research, a study was conducted scanning additively manufactured arcjet nozzles prior to and after standardized operation via neutron computed tomography. The results show a drop in performance over time, which can be related to changes in the constrictor geometry. Furthermore, cavities created during manufacturing can significantly influence operation.

Keyword(s): Engineering, Industrial Materials and Processing (1st) ; Industrial Application (2nd)

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Contributing Institute(s):

1. ANTARES (ANTARES)
2. DEVA (DEVA)

Experiment(s):

1. Measurement at external facility

Appears in the scientific report 2025

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Database coverage:

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