Electromagnetic Propulsion Without lonization

When an alternating electric field is applied to a polarized or polarizable material such as pure water, the dipole can be made to rotate at high frequency. If an alternating and synchronized magnetic field is then applied at right angles to the electric field, a Lorentz force is generated which propels the dielectric fluid without the necessity for ionization and the consequential energy losses. The thrust is proportional to the polarization, the frequency of dipole rotation, and the magnetic field strength. A gaseous propellant consisting of water or a colloid spray can achieve useful exit velocities at megacycle frequencies with power consumption diminished relative to conventional electromagnetic propulsion systems. Finally, the concept is applied to a shuttle propulsion system reacting against air and water vapor and found to show promise in launching payloads into Earth orbit and beyond. Nomenclature a = particle radius A = area B = magnetic field strength C = velocity of light E = electric field strength F = thrust / = frequency / = current / = moment of inertia J = quantum integer k = Boltzmann constant L = inductance m = molecular mass N = number of turns P = polarization