Magnetohydrodynamics: An Engineering Perspective

A likely design for a first-generation, coal-fired, open cycle magnetohydrodynamic power plant is described. Key development issues and relevant current development efforts are described. The general magnitude and scope of the ef fort required to develop, demonstrate and commercialize the technology is compared with representative efforts expended on other power generation developments in the past. General conclusions are drawn in regard to elements essential to a successful development and commercialization effort.