Cathode spots on electrode slag films in an open-cycle MHD generator

Abstract

A study has been made of the function of the electrodes (cathodes) in an open-cycle MHD generator for several different reasons [1–3], because the electrode processes have marked effects on the erosion and electrical characteristics of the electrodes. The specific features of the conditions in an MHD generator channel include, particularly, the high-temperature plasma composed of combustion products together with the deposition of potassium salts on the electrodes. These factors have a marked effect on the behavior of the cathode spots. In the case of an MHD generator fueled by coal, the plasma contains the incombustible mineral part of the fuel (ash). Therefore, the electrode surfaces receive not only potash salts, but also slag, which consists of various refractory oxides that differ from the potassium compounds in electrical conductivity, thermal conductivity, and emissivity. These films may substantially affect the parameters of the cathode spots, and hence the erosion, and the values may differ substantially from those given in [3]. We have examined the major features of the cathode spot behavior for an open-cycle MHD generator fueled by coal.