Development of Next-Generation Magnetohydrodynamic Channels for Optimized Hydrocarbon Energy Conversion

Magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) power generators offer an exciting alternative to traditional electric turbogenerators. While turbogenerators use moving fluids to turn conductors in a magnetic field, MHD generators extract power directly from a conductive fluid without moving parts. This results in a more robust electric generator capable of achieving higher operating temperatures than traditional turbogenerators, enabling greater thermal efficiency.

Theoretical studies suggest that MHD generators could significantly boost power plant efficiency, predicting an increase of 20-30% for coal and natural gas plants, and 15% for nuclear and concentrated solar power plants [1-3]. However, the path to deployable MHD generators is hampered by complex physics and engineering challenges. For instance, the high-temperature plasma within a hydrocarbon-fueled combustion MHD generator pushes the limits of currently available materials. Furthermore, many aspects of the plasma conditions inside a combustion MHD generator are poorly understood. Overcoming these obstacles is crucial for designing durable and high-performing MHD generators suitable for commercial deployment.

In this work, we present experimental results from our combustion-driven, alkali metal-seeded MHD channel, which utilizes emulsified potassium carbonate seed and kerosene fuel to generate a conductive plasma. We leverage finite element COMSOL simulations in combination with experimental optical and electrical diagnostics to gain insight into the plasma as we vary combustion conditions. Our results will inform the design and accelerate the development of future MHD power generators.

[1] N. Weiland et al., DOE/NETL-2021/2751 (2021)

[2] A. Kribus, Solar Energy 72 1 (2002)

[3] Litchford and Harada, Proc. NETS 3349 (2011)