Theoretical analysis of an external pulsed plasma jet

A theoretical description for a highly underexpanded, supersonic, pulsed plasma jet is presented, using an approximate analytical model. The model assumes an inviscid formulation and introduces an ad hoc asymptotic matching procedure with a perfect gas approximation. However, the specific heat ratio is allowed to be pressure and temperature dependent and the gas constant is a function of the degree of ionization. The model can resolve the shock structure and transient gas dynamic flow field for propellant discharges characteristic of the muzzle blast from conventional thermochemical guns and plasma discharges. Quantitative results are presented for the analytical model and compared to experimental data.