Mesofluidic magnetohydrodynamic power generation

Abstract

Much of the previous research into magnetohydrodynamics has involved large-scale systems. This thesis explores the miniaturization and use of devices to convert the power dissipated within an expanding gas flow into electricity. Specific properties, such as high surface tension, allow for unique possibilities in the design of such devices. The material covered includes a brief derivation of the theory describing steady well-developed MHD flows within circular and rectangular channels. Numerical simulations are used to elucidate the relationships derived theoretically and to enable future design without the reliance upon such simulation. Fabricated devices are experimentally observed to determine the agreement with the modeled behavior. Finally, a design is proposed that is predicted to be a viable generator as well as a means for further examining the unanswered questions raised by the research performed in this thesis.