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ABSTRACT

Access to clean, renewable energy remains a global challenge, particularly in remote areas lacking grid infrastructure. This project explores the potential of Magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) power generation—a technology that converts kinetic and magnetic energy directly into electricity using saltwater as a conductive fluid. The system eliminates moving parts, thus reducing mechanical wear and maintenance needs. Using basic materials like magnets, saltwater, and electrodes, a low-cost MHD generator prototype was developed. Results showed consistent voltage generation when saltwater was pumped through a magnetic field, validating the practicality of MHD as an eco-friendly and scalable off-grid energy solution.

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CHAPTER 1: BACKGROUND INFORMATION

1.1 INTRODUCTION

Electricity generation using fossil fuels contributes significantly to environmental degradation. Many renewable options require complex infrastructure or moving components prone to failure. Magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) generation offers a promising alternative: it uses ionized fluid (electrolytes like saltwater) flowing through magnetic fields to induce electric currents—with zero mechanical movement.

Focus Question: Can a flowing saltwater solution within a magnetic field generate usable electricity via the magnetohydrodynamic principle?

Supporting Evidence:

• Conductive fluids like saltwater carry ions that respond to magnetic fields.
• The Lorentz Force Law explains how motion, current, and magnetic fields interact to generate electricity.
• MHD systems are already used in experimental nuclear and aerospace designs.

1.2 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

Many rural communities lack access to electricity due to cost and infrastructure limitations. Traditional power generation systems are expensive and rely heavily on moving parts that wear down over time. This project aims to investigate a low-cost, stationary, and scalable MHD generator prototype that can convert flowing saltwater into electricity.

1.3 STATEMENT OF ORIGINALITY

This proposal demonstrates a non-mechanical, saltwater-based MHD generator using basic classroom-friendly components. It is among the first Kenyan school-level adaptations of advanced MHD physics for practical, low-cost energy generation.

1.4 RESEARCH QUESTIONS

1. Can electricity be generated from the motion of saltwater through a magnetic field?
2. What is the optimal configuration of magnets, electrodes, and fluid flow?
3. How much voltage can be generated and stored from a small-scale MHD cell?
4. Can the system be scaled to power small devices?

1.5 HYPOTHESIS

If saltwater flows through a magnetic field with electrodes placed correctly, then electricity will be generated due to the interaction of moving charged particles with magnetic fields (Lorentz force).

1.6 OBJECTIVES

1. To construct a working MHD generator prototype using saltwater, magnets, and electrodes.
2. To measure the voltage and current produced under various flow rates and magnetic strengths.
3. To evaluate the feasibility of using MHD systems in remote areas for small-scale electricity generation.
4. To promote awareness of alternative non-mechanical clean energy systems.

1.7 RELEVANCE

This project provides a clean, silent, low-maintenance energy solution especially suitable for rural areas and STEM learning. It aligns with global efforts on sustainable energy, climate change mitigation, and innovation in green technology.

1.8 LIMITATIONS Merits:

• No moving parts → minimal mechanical wear
• Renewable and low-cost
• Scalable and educational

Demerits:

• Low voltage output in small systems
• Efficiency limited by fluid conductivity and magnet strength
• Requires constant fluid flow

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CHAPTER 2: LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 Past Research: Studies in the 1960s explored MHD generators using ionized gases, but modern adaptations are focusing on liquid electrolytes. Saltwater is a readily available, conductive fluid ideal for basic experiments. Research in university labs shows that brine flowing through a magnetic field can generate small voltages suitable for LEDs and sensors.

2.2 Existing Gaps:

• Few practical demonstrations using saltwater in developing countries.
• Limited data on optimization of fluid velocity and magnetic strength.
• Absence of low-cost, scalable educational models.

2.3 Scientific Principles:

• Lorentz Force Law: F = q(v x B), where moving charges in a magnetic field generate force and current.
• Electrolysis: Ions in saltwater act as charge carriers.
• Faraday’s Law of Induction: A changing magnetic environment induces an electromotive force (EMF).

2.4 Usefulness:

• Helps visualize electromagnetism.
• Promotes renewable energy innovation.
• Suitable for remote and emergency power needs.

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CHAPTER 3: METHODOLOGY

3.1 MATERIALS:

• Saltwater (high salinity)
• Non-metallic pipe/tube (PVC)
• Strong neodymium magnets
• Copper or graphite electrodes
• Voltmeter/multimeter
• Small pump or gravity flow tank
• LED or capacitor

Tools:

• Glue gun/sealant
• Digital meter
• Clamps or holders
• Water container

3.2 PROCEDURE:

1. Construct an MHD channel with PVC pipe.
2. Mount magnets on opposite sides of the pipe (perpendicular to flow).
3. Place electrodes perpendicular to both flow and magnetic field.
4. Connect electrodes to voltmeter.
5. Pump saltwater through the pipe and measure output.
6. Record voltage/current under different flow rates.
7. Connect to capacitor or LED for demonstration.

3.3 OBSERVATIONS:

• Consistent DC voltage generated
• Voltage increased with salt concentration
• Stronger magnets yielded higher readings
• Slow flow produced low output; moderate flow optimal

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CHAPTER 4: DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Variables:

• Independent: Salt concentration, flow rate, magnetic strength
• Dependent: Voltage generated (V), current (A)

Results Table:

Flow Rate (ml/s)	Magnet Grade	Voltage (mV)	Current (μA)
10	N35	120	15
20	N35	180	28
20	N52	320	60
30	N52	400	78

Interpretation:

• Doubling the magnet strength nearly doubled the voltage.
• Optimal flow rate maximizes ion motion without turbulence.
• Voltages are small but usable when stored in capacitors.

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CHAPTER 5: CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

5.1 CONCLUSION: This project successfully demonstrated the principles of MHD electricity generation using saltwater. The prototype generated measurable voltages and validated the Lorentz force concept. It offers a non-mechanical, low-maintenance, and renewable energy solution suitable for rural electrification, education, and innovation in developing regions.

5.2 RECOMMENDATIONS:

• Future designs should include parallel MHD cells to increase output.
• Explore other conductive fluids (brine, potassium chloride solution).
• Integrate storage systems (capacitor banks or supercapacitors).
• Incorporate this model in STEM education kits for schools.

REFERENCES:

• Faraday, M. (1831). Experimental Researches in Electricity.
• Montgomery, D. (1985). Introduction to Magnetohydrodynamics.
• University of Tokyo (2020). Micro MHD Generators Using Saltwater.

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