Plasma Thrusters

Jack Cecil (ME)
Christos Potamianos (ME)

Advised by Professor Kamau Wright

Plasma forms under high voltage by breaking down gas molecules into ions and electrons. We are designing a rig to facilitate plasma discharges that generate a propulsive thrust force through atmospheric air. Our plasma thruster rig allows students to collect air velocity and voltage data points in a classroom environment helping students connect plasma engineering with mechanical engineering concepts.