Enhancing magnetohydrodynamic performance of liquid metal with solid insulating powders for fusion reactor applications

This study explores the enhancement of magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) performance in liquid metals through the addition of solid insulating powders, with a focus on applications in fusion reactors. The effects of varying Al₂O₃ powder volume fractions on the flow velocity and electrical conductivity of liquid metal under a uniform magnetic field are systematically investigated. Experimental results reveal that adding Al₂O₃ powder significantly mitigates the MHD-induced flow velocity drop, particularly at higher magnetic field strengths. Three-dimensional numerical simulations corroborate these findings, demonstrating strong agreement with experimental data. An optimal Al₂O₃ volume fraction of 2% is identified, which maximizes flow velocity under a magnetic field, while further increasing the powder concentration reduces electrical conductivity. At an Al₂O₃ volume fraction of 3%, the electrical conductivity decreases from 3.4 × 10⁶ S/m to 1.95 × 10⁶ S/m. The composite exhibits improved stability after sedimentation. These findings provide valuable insights for optimizing liquid blanket designs in fusion reactors, offering a practical approach to mitigating MHD effects and enhancing tritium breeding efficiency.