An assessment of materials requirements and research needs for open cycle magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) systems

Major programs are underway in the United States and elsewhere to develop and demonstrate a number of advanced coal-to-electricity conversion systems. The principal efforts are centered on MHD, fuel cells, and gas turbines. For MHD, significant progress in engineering component development has been made and no longer are 'proof of concept' and commercial feasibility questioned. Acceptance of the technology by the industrial sector still requires further demonstration of the performance, reliability, and durability of many interacting parts and components. Durability and reliability of MHD materials of construction are indeed prime issues which probably can be resolved through a combination of engineering/economic trade-offs and materials development derived from directed basic and applied research. This paper attempts to put the materials issues confronting MHD in proper perspective through a review of the development status of the overall system on a component-by-component basis. Pressing materials problems are defined and related to high-temperature research needed to assist in their solution. Emphasis is placed on materials applications in the MHD generator (electrodes) and heat exchangers as these components present the most demanding service conditions. (author)