The Role of Big Electrode Geometry in Ionic Propulsion

This study explores the effect of the geometry of the large electrode on the thrust performance of an asymmetric electrode system operating via the electrokinetic effect. When a high direct voltage is applied between a small electrode and a large electrode under atmospheric conditions, a corona discharge is initiated, producing a directed flow of ions. The aim of this research is to evaluate how different shapes of the large electrode influence the thrust. Three geometric configurations are analyzed: rectangle, semi-cylindrical, and airfoil-like. For each configuration, thrust is quantitatively measured. All experiments were conducted under identical laboratory conditions, with constant electrode spacing and voltage. The findings reveal a clear correlation between the geometry of the large electrode and the resulting thrust, thereby improving the understanding of electrokinetic propulsion and informing future design strategies in engineering applications.