How does an MHD generator convert the kinetic energy of hot gas directly into electric energy?

A magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) generator converts the kinetic energy of a hot, electrically conducting gas (or plasma) directly into electric power by passing the gas through a powerful magnetic field.12

The process follows these steps:

• Acceleration: Hot gas, often seeded with an easily ionizable material to increase its electrical conductivity, is accelerated to high velocities through a nozzle and injected into a channel.2
• Induction: As the conductive gas flows through the channel, it passes through a strong magnetic field. In accordance with Faraday’s law of induction, this interaction creates an electromotive force perpendicular to both the direction of the gas flow and the magnetic field.12
• Current Collection: Electrodes placed on the channel walls parallel to the magnetic field collect this induced current, allowing it to be delivered to an external electric circuit.2

Unlike conventional systems that use mechanical turbines, this method allows for direct energy conversion, enabling operation at much higher temperatures and potentially higher thermal efficiencies.12