A nuclear driven metallic vapor MHD coupled with MPD thrustersNuclear energy as a source of power for space missions, represents an enabling technology for advanced and ambitious space applications. Nuclear fuel in a gaseous or liquid form has been configured as a promising and practical candidate in this regard. The present study investigates and performs a feasibility analysis of an innovative concept for space power generation and propulsion. The system embodies a conceptual nuclear reactor with an MHD generator and coupled to MPD thrusters. The reactor utilizes liquid uranium in droplet form as fuel and superheated metallic vapor as the working fluid. This ultrahigh temperature vapor core reactor brings forward varied and challenging technical issues, and it has been addressed to in this paper. A parametric study of the conceived system has been performed in a qualitative and quantitative manner. Preliminary results show enough promise for further indepth analysis of this novel system.
Document ID
19910067857
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Anghaie, Samim (Florida Univ. Gainesville, FL, United States)
Kumar, Ratan (Florida, University Gainesville, United States)