3D-Printed Nanosatellite Thruster Emits Pure Ions

A thruster for nanosatellites was entirely additively manufactured using a combination of 3D printing and hydro-thermal growth of zinc oxide nanowires. The thruster produces pure ions from the ionic liquids used to generate propulsion. The pure ions make the thruster more efficient than similar state-of-the-art devices, giving it more thrust per unit flow of propellant.