Designing and Optimizing Magnetohydrodynamic Induction Marine Energy Harvester

Magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) power generation presents a promising approach for harvesting energy from marine environments, offering a sustainable alternative for powering naval assets and coastal infrastructure. While energy harvesting technologies are widely used in terrestrial and aerial applications, their implementation in marine environments remains limited. This thesis explores the feasibility of an MHD Inductive Marine Energy Harvester, optimizing its design for undersea naval applications to enhance energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions with minimized construction costs. A theoretical 2D model was developed based on Maxwell’s equations and Fourier analysis to characterize the physics governing MHD power generation in seawater. This model was extended to multiple concentric gaps on one device, refining predictions of power output under varying flow regimes. Numerical simulations using MATLAB enabled the evaluation of key parameters, including fluid conductivity, magnetic field strength, and shroud design, to optimize energy conversion efficiency. Furthermore, geographical and coastal tide analyses were conducted to determine optimal deployment locations, maximizing power extraction from natural marine currents. Economic viability was assessed through a cost-benefit analysis, comparing the energy yield per unit cost of the harvester against existing renewable energy technologies and other maritime power sources. Results indicate that under specific conditions, MHD generators can effectively supplement energy demands, reducing reliance on conventional fuel or other electrical power sources. The findings of this research contribute to the advancement of marine renewable energy technologies, demonstrating the potential of MHD induction-based harvesting as a scalable solution for sustainable power.

Name thesis:degree_name

Engineer

Department dc:contributor.department

Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Department of Mechanical Engineering

Grantor dc:publisher

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Year dc:date.issued

2025

Author dc:creator

• Scali, William T.

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Sclavounos, Paul D.

Statement dc:rights

• In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
• Copyright retained by author(s)

Licence dc:rights.uri

• https://rightsstatements.org/page/InC-EDU/1.0/

Handle dc:identifier.uri

https://hdl.handle.net/1721.1/163449

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:dspace.mit.edu:1721.1/163449