Simulation of particle dynamics for rarefied flows: Backflow in thruster plumes

A novel model and a new numerical method are presented for the transport of solid particles in rarefied flows. The model is based on a Vlasov type equation where the particles are represented by a distribution function. The rarefied flow is described by a BGK or ES-BGK approach. An accurate method is proposed to solve the particle transport equation in a fully Eulerian framework. Validations in 2D with respect to analytical solutions and a Lagrangian method are presented. The numerical model is then used to explain a peculiar particle dynamics observed in satellite thrusters.