Advanced LMMHD power generation

      Magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) power technology supplies a new method to convert the thermal energy directly into electrical power. In liquid metal MHD (LMMHD) power generation systems, liquid metal with higher conductivity is used to be working fluid, it is driven to pass through an MHD channel in the presence of an intense magnetic field (B). An electromotive force (EMF) is induced between the channel walls.

      Considering the slow-moving, high‑magnitude force of an ocean wave and combining the characteristics of LMMHD generator, research works on LMMHD Wave Energy Direct Conversion (LMMHDWEDC) have been carried out in our group. The system can provide an excellent match to the mechanical impedance of an ocean wave. It is highly efficient and can be a very compact device with very high power density, and it is expected to be one of the best ways to convert ocean wave energy into electricity directly.

      A demonstration system of LMMHDWEDC is under development, patents application is now in process.