Magnetohydrodynamic Power Extraction in High Speed Flows using Nonequilibrium Ionization

"Research Support Instruments, Inc. (RSI), with the aid of Princeton University, proposes to use non-thermal ionization of high-speed flows to achieve the first-ever demonstration of nonequlibrium magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) power extraction for use onboardan aircraft. MHD power generation has been identified as a method of increasing the electrical power available for onboard systems, including directed energy weapons. Conventional high temperature seeded MHD methods are very problematic for flight speedsof less than Mach 12, because the temperature is simply insufficient at those Mach numbers, but non-thermal ionization is an attractive alternative. Electron beams are much more efficient at generating ionization than other conventional (electricfield-generated) approaches. RSI will use highly innovative large area electron beam window arrays to provide a conduction path in a wind tunnel MHD channel as a Phase I proof of principle, while Princeton will provide modeling capabilities, as well as aMach 5 wind tunnel facility equipped with a 6 Tesla superconducting magnet. Together, RSI and Princeton can provide the unique opportunity to model aerothermodynamic performance, vehicle scaling, and external flowpath, while also immediately demonstratingproof-of-principle of the concept of non-thermal ionization in high speed MHD power extraction. Non-thermal ionization in MHD flows provides a promising solution for aircraft applications,