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Ion Engines - Specialty Gases

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ION ENGINES

High quality gases for precise movements in space
 

Ion Engines - Introduction

Xenon and Krypton for Ion Engines

Ion thrusters represent a possible propulsion method for space travel and use the thrust of an ion beam for propulsion. Compared to chemical engines, which are used when launching a rocket, ion propulsion is suitable as a secondary engine for satellites and space probes. Ion propulsion systems consume less propellant and enable energy-efficient continuous operation, for example for long trajectories of space probes or satellites. High-purity Xenon is established as a gaseous fuel, but Krypton can also be used as an efficient alternative.

Nested Applications

Ion Engines - Functionality

How do ion thrusters work?

Ion thrusters use a gaseous propellant to maneuver satellites in space efficiently. Neutral rare gas atoms are injected into the thruster via the propellant inlet. If such a neutral atom collides with a drifting electron from the electron ring current within the thruster, it becomes ionized and emitted from the thruster outlet. The resulting recoil generates the necessary thrust, whereas the electron emitter neutralizes the ion beam to form an electrically neutral plasma. This plasma results in the typical bright and intense color at the thruster outlet.

Ion Engines - Image

 

Ion Engines - Documentation

Traceable documentation

Messer ensures complete traceability along the entire production and supply chain. We document reliably and carefully from the production site to the end customer, especially for valuable and scarce products such as Xenon and Krypton, as well as for cylinders and valves.

 

Ion Engines - Brochure

Additional Information for Xenon and Krypton for Ion Engines

You can find additional information regarding Xenon and Krypton for ion engines in the brochure below, including Messer's product portfolio, production and supply for rare gases in particular as well as its strict quality control chain.

 

Specialty gase page

SPECIALTY GASES

Do you have high standards? We do, too. Specialty gases from Messer

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