[en] This paper presents a method for obtaining electron energy density functions from Langmuir probe data taken in cool, dense plasmas where thin-sheath criteria apply and where magnetic effects are not severe. Noise is filtered out by using regression of orthogonal polynomials. The method requires only a programmable calculator (TI-59 or equivalent) to implement and can be used for the most general, nonequilibrium electron energy distribution plasmas. Data from a mercury ion source analyzed using this method are presented and compared with results for the same data using standard numerical techniques
1981; 6 p; 15. AIAA/JSASS/DGLR international electromagnetic propulsion conference; Las Vegas, NV (USA); 21 - 23 Apr 1981; Available from NTIS., PC A02/MF A01 as DE82005270