Laser-powered MHD generators for space application

Technical Report · Wed Oct 01 00:00:00 EDT 1986

OSTI ID:6976647

Jalufka, N W

Magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) energy conversion systems of the pulsed laser-supported detonation (LSD) wave, plasma MHD, and liquid-metal MHD (LMMHD) types are assessed for their potential as space-based laser-to-electrical power converters. These systems offer several advantages as energy converters relative to the present chemical, nuclear, and solar devices, including high conversion efficiency, simple design, high-temperature operation, high power density, and high reliability. Of these systems, the Brayton cycle liquid-metal MHD system appears to be the most attractive. The LMMHD technology base is well established for terrestrial applications, particularly with regard to the generator, mixer, and other system components. However, further research is required to extend this technology base to space applications and to establish the technology required to couple the laser energy into the system most efficiently. Continued research on each of the three system types is recommended.

• Research Organization: National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Hampton, VA (USA). Langley Research Center
• OSTI ID: 6976647
• Report Number(s): N-87-10764; NASA-TP-2621; NAS-1.60:2621
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

30 DIRECT ENERGY CONVERSION
LASER POWER TRANSMISSION
COMPARATIVE EVALUATIONS
MHD GENERATORS
SPACECRAFT POWER SUPPLIES
BRAYTON CYCLE
DESIGN
EFFICIENCY
ENERGY CONVERSION
LASER-PRODUCED PLASMA
LIQUID METALS
RELIABILITY
CONVERSION
DIRECT ENERGY CONVERTERS
ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT
ELEMENTS
EQUIPMENT
FLUIDS
LIQUIDS
METALS
PLASMA
POWER SUPPLIES
POWER TRANSMISSION
THERMODYNAMIC CYCLES
300100* - Direct Energy Conversion- MHD Generators