Magnetohydrodynamics

Name:
Magnetohydrodynamics
Detailed information:
(MHD). The behavior of high-temperature ionized gases passed through a magnetic field. A power-generating method using MHD involves an open cycle in which hot combustible gases from coal, seeded with cerium or potassium to increase electrical conductivity, constitute the working fluid. These are sent through a nozzle surrounded by a magnet; the electricity induced by movement of the ionized gas through the magnetic field is passed to electrodes and the gas sent to a steam generator. Efficiency is rated at 50–60% compared with 40% for conventional fossil fuel plants and 33% for plants using nuclear fuels. Two-phase liquid-metal systems are being studied as auxiliary units for a number of energy converters. MHD is an important field of expansion of research activity on new sources of energy; its high efficiency and low pollution factor indicate that it may have a significant future in electric power supply.See Plasma.