Experimental Investigation of Electroaerodynamic Propulsion: Velocity-Information-Based Thrust and Self-Induced Drag Estimation

An electroaerodynamic thruster in wire-to-droplet airfoil configuration is investigated experimentally by means of particle image velocimetry in combination with a load cell and electrical characterization. While the time-averaged velocity fields appear smooth and show consistent topology across a large voltage regime, instantaneous velocity fields reveal wake instabilities. The potential of estimating thrust based on velocity information is showcased, where different approaches are contrasted. The results show good agreement with direct load cell measurements. Finally, options and challenges for the estimation of selfinduced drag are discussed.