Electrostatic Ion Motor
Electron-driven high-voltage demonstration
Introduction
This simple electrostatic motor is driven by ion wind. Charge escapes rapidly from the sharp ends of exposed conductors, producing a reaction force that turns the rotor. The idea was inspired by an experiment published at pokusy.chytrak.cz.
Construction and Operation
The rotor is connected to a high-voltage source of approximately 40 kV. The wire ends must be sharp and positioned so that the corona discharge produces thrust in the same rotational direction. Friction must be kept very low so that the weak ion-wind force can start and sustain rotation.
The experiment is visually simple, but the supply voltage is potentially lethal. The apparatus must be operated remotely, with adequate insulation, spacing and discharge procedures.
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