Aspects of closed-cycle MHD power generation

In order to obtain useful MHD generators for use in closed cycle nuclear power plants, studies are being directed toward the electrical conductivity of cycle working fluid. Since the maximum temperatures anticipated from nuclear reactors are far less than would be necessary for thermal ionization, some form of non-equilibrium ionization is necessary. In the present paper, an electron beam apparatus being used in conjunction with an argon-caesium MHD generator experiment for purposes of pre-ionization is described in detail. In addition, the operating characteristics of a long time closed-loop for boiling and condensing potassium for vapour MHD experiments are described. Finally, some results of theoretical studies considering the MHD interaction when the fluid is in a state of non-equilibrium are presented. (author)