J X B MAGNETOHYDRODYNAMIC (MHD) WORKING FLUIDS
Abstract
A literature survey covering the three types of MHD propulsors (shunt, series, induction) is provided. A theory suitable for analyzing the performance of the steady J x B accelerator is developed. The performance of various working fluids is determined using the criterion of maximum propulsion efficiency. Two broad classes of working fluids are considered: equilibrium plasmas, and non-equilibrium plasmas. Non-equilibrium plasmas have the advantage of good performance without high temperature materials problems. A conductivity of 170 mhos/m in argon has been experimentally produced and measured in a 'ring' discharge at a pressure of 1 mm of Hg with a power input of approximately 1 kilowatt. A temperature of over 5,000 K is required to do this thermally. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1962
- Accession Number
- AD0278837
Entities
People
- Meredith C. Gourdine