What maximum efficiency can an MHD power system potentially achieve?

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magnetohydrodynamic power generator Comparison of the operating principles of (A) a turbogenerator and (B) an MHD generator.

A magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) power system offers the potential for an ultimate efficiency in the range of 60 to 65 percent.1

While the Carnot cycle establishes a higher theoretical maximum efficiency for heat engines based on the temperature difference between the hot source and cold sink, real-world MHD systems must account for inefficiencies caused by finite heat transfer rates and component limitations. Nevertheless, this projected efficiency remains significantly higher than the 35 to 40 percent typically achieved by modern conventional power plants.1