A Two-Temperature, Gas-Particle Suspension in MHD Power Generation

Abstract

A feasibility study has been made of the use of a two-temperature, gas-particle suspension as the conducting medium in MHD generators. Large gas-particle temperature differences following nozzle expansions have been calculated, and the power generated by the use of these suspensions in MHD generator ducts has been investigated. Although relatively low gas temperatures have been considered, high electrical conductivities can be achieved by means of thermionic emission of electrons from high temperature particles. It is shown that total output power increases as gas temperature is decreased by means of continued nozzle expansion. Output power is also increased through the use of relatively large particles.