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At least 19 records
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
DOE OSTI2025

Wave topology in Hall magnetohydrodynamics

Hall magnetohydrodynamics (HMHD) extends ideal MHD by incorporating the Hall effect via the induction equation, making it more accurate for describing plasma behavior at length scales below the ion skin depth. Despite its importance, a comprehensive description of the eigenmodes in HMHD has been lacking. In this work, we derive the complete spectrum and eigenvectors of HMHD waves and identify their underlying topological structure. We prove that the HMHD wave spectrum is homotopic to that of ideal MHD, consisting of three distinct branches: the slow magnetosonic-Hall waves, the shear Alfvén-Hall waves, and the fast magnetosonic-Hall waves, which continuously reduce to their ideal MHD counterparts in the limit of vanishing Hall parameter. Contrary to a recent claim [Mahajan, Sharma, and Lingam, Phys. Plasmas 31, 090701 (2024)], we find that HMHD does not admit any additional wave branches beyond those in ideal MHD. In conclusion, the key qualitative difference lies in the topological nature of the HMHD wave structure: it exhibits nontrivial topology characterized by a Weyl point—an isolated eigenmode degeneracy point—and associated nonzero Chern numbers of the eigenmode bundles over a 2-sphere in 𝐤-space surrounding the Weyl point.

Alfvén waves↗
DOE OSTI2025

A scalable multidimensional fully implicit solver for Hall magnetohydrodynamics

We propose an optimally performant fully implicit algorithm for the Hall magnetohydrodynamics (HMHD) equations based on multigrid-preconditioned Jacobian-free Newton-Krylov methods. HMHD is a challenging system to solve numerically because it supports stiff fast dispersive waves. The preconditioner is formulated using an operator-split approximate block factorization (Schur complement), informed by physics insight. We use a vector-potential formulation (instead of a magnetic field one) to allow a clean segregation of the problematic $\nabla$ x $\nabla$ x operator in the electron Ohm's law subsystem. This segregation allows the formulation of an effective damped block-Jacobi smoother for multigrid. We demonstrate by analysis that our proposed block-Jacobi iteration is convergent and has the smoothing property. The resulting HMHD solver is verified linearly with wave propagation examples, and nonlinearly with the GEM challenge reconnection problem by comparison against another HMHD code. We demonstrate the excellent algorithmic and parallel performance of the algorithm up to 16384 MPI tasks in two dimensions.

71 CLASSICAL AND QUANTUM MECHANICS, GENERAL PHYSIC↗
DOE OSTI2024

Three-dimensional plasmoid-mediated reconnection and turbulence in Hall magnetohydrodynamics

Plasmoid instability accelerates reconnection in collisional plasmas by transforming a laminar reconnection layer into numerous plasmoids connected by secondary current sheets in two dimensions (2D) and by fostering self-generated turbulent reconnection in three dimensions (3D). In large-scale astrophysical and space systems, plasmoid instability likely initiates in the collisional regime but may transition into the collisionless regime as the fragmentation of the current sheet progresses toward kinetic scales. Hall magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) models are widely regarded as a simplified yet effective representation of the transition from collisional to collisionless reconnection. However, plasmoid instability in 2D Hall MHD simulations often leads to a single-X-line reconnection configuration, which significantly differs from fully kinetic particle-in-cell simulation results. This study shows that single-X-line reconnection is less likely to occur in 3D compared to 2D. Moreover, depending on the Lundquist number and the ratio between the system size and the kinetic scale, Hall MHD can also realize 3D self-generated turbulent reconnection. We analyze the features of the self-generated turbulent state, including the energy power spectra and the scale dependence of turbulent eddy anisotropy.

Physics↗
NASA NTRSDate not supplied

Hall Magnetohydrodynamic Power Generation and Drag Augmentation Using A Coaxial-Electrode Configuration During Hypersonic Entry

For interplanetary missions, a spacecraft must reduce its relative velocity from orbital speeds of multiple kilometers per second to zero in order to safely land on the surface of a planetary body. During this phase known as planetary reentry, the spacecraft undergoes high speed above Mach 5 up to Mach 30. This hyper-sonic flight regime imposes a strong bow shock in front of the vehicle that imparts extreme aerodynamic and thermal effects. In addition, during portions of this regime, a plasma is formed in the post-shock flow-field around the vehicle due to these high temperatures. Interaction between an applied magnetic field with this electrically conductive fluid, or magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) interaction, can be utilized to convert kinetic energy from the flow into storable electrical energy. Onboard MHD energy generation can benefit the spacecraft by increasing the power of active thermal control components and vehicle control systems during reentry. MHD interaction also exerts a Lorentz body force on the plasma flow that can be manipulated to act as an additional drag force through the vehicle body. MHD drag augmentation can benefit the spacecraft with an additional control mechanism that operates without moving parts. This can be utilized at higher altitudes and subsequently reduce convective heat transfer to the vehicle. MHD interaction with plasma flow suggests that both power generation and drag augmentation can be integrated together in one design. Modern numerical studies have only demonstrated the viability and potential of MHD energy generation and drag modulation separately for implementation into future spacecraft designs [1] [2] [3]. Steeves et. al. presented one possible generator design specifically for reentry vehicles that utilized a modular panel with two embedded electromagnets and two extruding electrodes for air plasma to flow between. Fujino et. al. presented results that indicated increased total drag with a permanent magnet embedded in the blunt body of the Orbital Reentry Experiment (OREX) trajectory. Furthermore, experimental investigations of these two MHD applications have been limited and separate due to the difficult technical nature of experimental de-sign and analysis. For MHD energy generation, there have been two designs which used a cylindrical fore-body with two embedded permanent magnets and two outward facing curved electrodes for tangency to an artificially ionized plasma that flowed along the body length [4] [5]. The first design was studied using an air microwave (MW) ionized supersonic plasma wind tunnel and the second design used radio frequency (RF) ionization of Argon, but both physically demonstrated the feasibility of MHD energy generation in reentry plasma conditions. For MHD drag modulation, one study involved a small-scale cylindrical blunt body embedded with permanent magnets immersed in plasma flow in an arcjet tunnel [6], and another utilized a spherical permanent magnet enclosed with a spherical forebody that was evaluated in a shock expansion tunnel [7]. Both experimental studies provided physical evidence of drag augmentation due to MHD interactions. Therefore, because of the multi-faceted effects of MHD along with both applications having been deemed feasible and beneficial during reentry, this indicates that a coupled power generation and drag modulation design could be achievable. The axi-symmetric nature of blunt bodies for reentry suggests that a spherical set of two ring electrodes near the nose along the body axis. Based on first principles, flow along the walls of the spherical body can then produce MHD interactions between the electrodes. As a result, two currents are generated: a Hall current that produces power and a primary inductive current that augments the drag force. The goal of this work is to provide a simulated design of a coaxial-electrode con-figuration for power generation and drag modulation for experimental testing.

E. Leong↗
DOE OSTI2024

Hall MHD waves: A fundamental departure from their MHD counterparts

It is demonstrated through a succinct derivation as to how the linear waves in Hall magnetohydrodynamics (HMHD) constitute a fundamental departure from the standard MHD waves. Apart from modifying the conventional MHD spectrum, the Hall current induces a distinct and new branch consisting of purely circularly polarized waves that may become the representative shear waves.

Astrophysics↗
DOE OSTI2024

Topological modes and spectral flows in inhomogeneous PT-symmetric continuous media

In classical Hermitian continuous media, the spectral-flow index of topological modes is linked to the bulk topology via index theorem. However, the interface between two bulks is usually non-Hermitian due to the inhomogeneities of system parameters. We show that the connection between topological modes and bulk topology still exists despite the non-Hermiticity at the interface if the system is endowed with PT symmetry. The theoretical framework developed is applied to the Hall magnetohydrodynamic model to identify a topological mode called topological Alfvén sound wave in magnetized plasmas. Published by the American Physical Society 2024

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY↗
NASA NTRS1994

Growing 'Alfvenic' modes in the upstream region of Saturn

Recent studies of low-frequency electromagnetic waves upstream of the Saturn bow shock have shown that these waves, in contrast to those at Earth, are observed not in one, but in at least two, distinct frequency bands. The results of wave mode identification based on the Hall-magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) model of plasma and observed wave polarization suggested that these waves propagate in the high beta intermediate mode. However, the underlying instability was not unambiguously determined. In the present paper we use the full electromagnetic dispersion relation derived from linear Vlasov theory in order to examine which of the plasma modes, with observed properties, are unstable in an isotropic Maxwellian plasma in the presence of backstreaming proton beams consistent with Voyager 2 observations at Saturn. As a result we find that the unstable 'Alfvenic' beam mode, as well as resonant and non-resonant fast magnetosonic modes have properties consistent with the data. Moreover, we find that in contrast to the Earth's upstream waves, at Saturn no 'kinetic' normal mode can account for the observed magnetic polarization.

Orlowski, D. S.↗
DOE OSTI2025

Simulation Models for Exploring Magnetic Reconnection

Simulations have played a critical role in the advancement of our knowledge of magnetic reconnection. However, due to the inherently multiscale nature of reconnection, it is impossible to simulate all physics at all scales. For this reason, a wide range of simulation methods have been crafted to study particular aspects and consequences of magnetic reconnection. This article reviews many of these methods, laying out critical assumptions, numerical techniques, and giving examples of scientific results. Plasma models described include magnetohydrodynamics (MHD), Hall MHD, Hybrid, kinetic particle-in-cell (PIC), kinetic Vlasov, Fluid models with embedded PIC, Fluid models with direct feedback from energetic populations, and the Rice Convection Model (RCM).

79 ASTRONOMY AND ASTROPHYSICS↗
NASA NTRS1972

Hall current effects in the Lewis magnetohydrodynamic generator.

Data obtained in the Lewis MHD generator are compared with theoretical values calculated using the Dzung (1966) theory. The generator is operated with cesium seeded argon as the working fluid. The gas temperature varies from 1800 to 2100 K, the gas pressure from 19 to 22 N/sq cm, the Mach number from .3 to .5, and the magnetic field strength from .2 to 1.6 tesla. The analysis indicates that there is incomplete seed vaporization and that Hall current shorting paths (through the working fluid to ground at both the entrance and exit of the channel) are limiting generator performance.

Nichols, L. D.↗
NASA NTRS1972

Hall current effects in the Lewis magnetohydrodynamic generator

Data obtained in a magnetohydrodynamic generator are compared with theoretical values calculated by using the Dzung theory. The generator was operated with cesium-seeded argon as the working fluid. The gas temperature varied from 1800 to 2100 K, the gas pressure from 19 to 22 N/sq cm, the Mach number from 0.3 to 0.5, and the magnetic field strength from 0.2 to 1.6 T. The analysis indicates that there is incomplete seed vaporization and that Hall current shorting paths (through the working fluid to ground at both the entrance and exit of the channel) limit generator performance.

Nichols, L. D.↗
NASA NTRS1994

A test of the Hall-MHD model: Application to low-frequency upstream waves at Venus

Early studies suggested that in the range of parameter space where the wave angular frequency is less than the proton gyrofrequency and the plasma beta, the ratio of the thermal to magnetic pressure, is less than 1 magnetohydrodynamics provides an adequate description of the propagating modes in a plasma. However, recently, Lacombe et al. (1992) have reported significant differences between basic wave characteristics of the specific propagation modes derived from linear Vlasov and Hall-magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) theories even when the waves are only weakly damped. In this paper we compare the magnetic polarization and normalization magnetic compression ratio of ultra low frequency (ULF) upstream waves at Venus with magnetic polarization and normalized magnetic compression ratio derived from both theories. We find that while the 'kinetic' approach gives magnetic polarization and normalized magnetic compression ratio consistent with the data in the analyzed range of beta (0.5 less than beta less than 5) for the fast magnetosonic mode, the same wave characteristics derived from the Hall-MHD model strongly depend on beta and are consistent with the data only at low beta for the fast mode and at high beta for the intermediate mode.

Orlowski, D. S.↗
NASA NTRS2010

Adaptive Numerical Algorithms in Space Weather Modeling

Space weather describes the various processes in the Sun-Earth system that present danger to human health and technology. The goal of space weather forecasting is to provide an opportunity to mitigate these negative effects. Physics-based space weather modeling is characterized by disparate temporal and spatial scales as well as by different physics in different domains. A multi-physics system can be modeled by a software framework comprising of several components. Each component corresponds to a physics domain, and each component is represented by one or more numerical models. The publicly available Space Weather Modeling Framework (SWMF) can execute and couple together several components distributed over a parallel machine in a flexible and efficient manner. The framework also allows resolving disparate spatial and temporal scales with independent spatial and temporal discretizations in the various models. Several of the computationally most expensive domains of the framework are modeled by the Block-Adaptive Tree Solar wind Roe Upwind Scheme (BATS-R-US) code that can solve various forms of the magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) equations, including Hall, semi-relativistic, multi-species and multi-fluid MHD, anisotropic pressure, radiative transport and heat conduction. Modeling disparate scales within BATS-R-US is achieved by a block-adaptive mesh both in Cartesian and generalized coordinates. Most recently we have created a new core for BATS-R-US: the Block-Adaptive Tree Library (BATL) that provides a general toolkit for creating, load balancing and message passing in a 1, 2 or 3 dimensional block-adaptive grid. We describe the algorithms of BATL and demonstrate its efficiency and scaling properties for various problems. BATS-R-US uses several time-integration schemes to address multiple time-scales: explicit time stepping with fixed or local time steps, partially steady-state evolution, point-implicit, semi-implicit, explicit/implicit, and fully implicit numerical schemes. Depending on the application, we find that different time stepping methods are optimal. Several of the time integration schemes exploit the block-based granularity of the grid structure. The framework and the adaptive algorithms enable physics based space weather modeling and even forecasting.

Toth, Gabor↗
DOE OSTI2026

Asymptotic-preserving semi-implicit finite volume scheme for extended magnetohydrodynamics

A Finite Volume (FV) scheme is developed for solving the extended magnetohydrodynamic (XMHD) equations, yielding accurate results in the ideal, resistive, and Hall MHD limits. This is accomplished by first re-writing the XMHD equations such that it allows the algorithm to retain the use of ideal MHD Riemann solvers and the constrained transport method to preserve divergence-free magnetic fields. Incorporation of electron inertia and displacement current introduces additional numerical stiffness which motivates a semi-implicit FV scheme that re-formulates the XMHD model as a relaxation system. The equations are then advanced in time using an explicit 2nd-order Runge–Kutta scheme with operator splitting applied to the implicit source term updates at each sub-stage. For additional numerical stability, a density-dependent slope limiter is implemented to increase flux diffusivity at low density regions where non-ideal effects become significant. The algorithm is subsequently implemented in a scalable adaptive mesh refinement (AMR) framework. As the new algorithm retains many aspects of the ideal MHD formulations, it asymptotes naturally to the ideal MHD limit. Moreover, it shows promising results at the resistive and Hall MHD limits. This is verified against reference test problems for ideal, resistive and Hall MHD.

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY↗
NASA NTRS1992

Numerical simulation of geometric scale effects in cylindrical self-field MPD thrusters

A 2-D, two-temperature, single fluid magnetohydrodynamic code which incorporates classical plasma transport coefficients and Hall effects was developed to predict steady-state, self-field magnetoplasmadynamic (MPD) thruster performance. The governing equations and numerical methods of solution are outlined and discussed. Experimental comparisons are used to validate model predictions. The model accurately predicts thrust and reproduces trends in the discharge voltage for discharge currents below experimentally measured onset values. However, because the model does not include electrode effects, the calculated voltage drops are significantly lower than experimentally measured values. Predictions of thrust and flow efficiency are made for a matrix of fifteen cylindrical thruster geometries, assuming a fully ionized argon propellant. A maximum predicted specific impulse of 1680 s is obtained for a thruster with an anode radius of 2.5 cm, a cathode radius of 0.5 cm, and equal electrode lengths of 2.5 cm. A scaling relation is developed to predict, within limits, the onset of cylindrical, self-field thruster instability as a function of geometry and operating condition.

Lapointe, M.↗