Here's an article on New Scientist about the potential for graphene as a propulsion source. Sounds like a solar-sail, but there appears to be more force than what photons themselves would provide.http://www.newscientist.com/article/mg22630235.400-spacecraft-built-from-graphene-could-run-on-nothing-but-sunlight.html#.VW3HVVzByGt
At least a few of us agree that if the light driven electron emission works, charge buildup is an issue for a thruster. While there will be some charge neutralization from ambient plasma, the rate of electron collection limits long term thrust.
Quote from: Hanelyp on 06/02/2015 09:47 pmAt least a few of us agree that if the light driven electron emission works, charge buildup is an issue for a thruster. While there will be some charge neutralization from ambient plasma, the rate of electron collection limits long term thrust.Yep, but it'd make an amazing solar panel!!
Perhaps the electronic delocalization from the SP2-hybridized carbon of graphene allows the electron to be ejected more easily without feeling any localized electric field to force it back. Consider how very large that graphene sail would be - that's a lot of SP2 hybridization and a lot of electronic delocalization going on.
I guess I am still unsure what your getting at. How would you would separate an electron from the material without it feeling an electric field pulling it back? I guess that is why I don't really get their explanation. They have electrons being kicked in the opposite direction and as if they are never going to come back to the source.