MHD Generators could make zero emission coal generators affordable and efficient and MHD generators could also make nuclear power for space very light with an energy density of one to three kilograms per kilowatt. Magnets are about 22% of the cost. Superconductors and new permanent magnets (using nanomaterials) could make more powerful magnets that are far cheaper. Superconductors appear on track to become several times cheaper and more powerful over the next 5 years.
Development of 2G HTS Wire for Demanding Electric Power Applications (30 pages, by Superpower Inc) Superpower Inc is improving the cost performance of its superconducting wire and is expecting major market gains over the next few years.
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Brian Wang is a Futurist Thought Leader and a popular Science blogger with 1 million readers per month. His blog Nextbigfuture.com is ranked #1 Science News Blog. It covers many disruptive technology and trends including Space, Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, Medicine, Anti-aging Biotechnology, and Nanotechnology.
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