Two-types of vertically aligned multi-walled carbon nanotubes (VA-MWNTs) are
evaluated as the protective coatings against ion erosion in electric propulsion systems. A
series of experiments have been conducted to understand the erosion rate and erosion
mechanism of these VA-MWNTs. These experiments were carried out with Xe
propellant at an ion current density of 5 mA/cm2. We found that the erosion rates of both
types of VA-MWNTs were changing with time. Such a nonlinear erosion process is
explained according to a possible erosion mechanism.