Electrochemical aspects of magnetohydrodynamic thrusters

The concept of using Magnetohydrodynamics to provide thrust has been around for decades. However little work has been carried out in one of the fundamental aspects that allows for these systems to operate in seawater. Therefore a series of tests were carried out to determine how the electrochemical reactions occurring at the electrodes affect the seawater system. These tests were used to determine the effects magnetic fields have on seawater conductivity, the pH changes around the electrodes, and consider the double layer capacitance model as a means to decrease the amount of gas bubbles created at the electrodes. As a result significant increases in resistivity in seawater were observed when the magnetic field was introduced, pH changes were seen on both the cathode and anode, and pulsing of the applied potential may stimulate further work to be considered.