Abstract: A nano-particle field extraction system comprising a grid having a plurality of electrodes each defining an electrical field, wherein the grid has a plurality of vias extending therethrough. The system further comprises a reservoir having a generally dry mixture disposed therein, a plurality of particles suspended in the generally dry mixture, a biasing member applying a biasing force to the generally dry mixture in the reservoir, and a sieve electrode system in electrical communication with the grid. The sieve electrode system has a plurality of through-holes extending from the reservoir to the grid, such that the sieve electrode system cooperates with the biasing member to extract at least one particle from the generally dry mixture and into the grid whereby the electrical fields charge and accelerate the particle in the vias.

Abstract: A nano-particle field extraction system comprising a grid having a plurality of electrodes each defining an electrical field, wherein the grid has a plurality of vias extending therethrough. The system further comprises a reservoir having a generally dry mixture disposed therein, a plurality of particles suspended in the generally dry mixture, a biasing member applying a biasing force to the generally dry mixture in the reservoir, and a sieve electrode system in electrical communication with the grid. The sieve electrode system has a plurality of through-holes extending from the reservoir to the grid, such that the sieve electrode system cooperates with the biasing member to extract at least one particle from the generally dry mixture and into the grid whereby the electrical fields charge and accelerate the particle in the vias.

Abstract: A scalable flat-panel nano-particle MEMS/NEMS thruster includes a grid having a plurality of electrodes to establish electrical fields. A liquid is disposed in a liquid reservoir of the grid. The liquid is positioned within the electrical fields. A plurality of nano-particles are suspended in the liquid. A plurality of MEMS and NEMS micron-size vias are disposed in the grid. The electrical fields extract the plurality of nano-particles from the liquid and accelerate the nano-particles in the vias to provide propulsion system thrust.

Abstract: A scalable flat-panel nano-particle MEMS/NEMS thruster includes a grid having a plurality of electrodes to establish electrical fields. A liquid is disposed in a liquid reservoir of the grid. The liquid is positioned within the electrical fields. A plurality of nano-particles are suspended in the liquid. A plurality of MEMS and NEMS micron-size vias are disposed in the grid. The electrical fields extract the plurality of nano-particles from the liquid and accelerate the nano-particles in the vias to provide propulsion system thrust.