Basic Characterization of the Mg Combustion Engine for a Renewable Energy Cycle Using Solar-pumped Laser

Basic characteristics of magunesium (Mg) reactions with water vapor have been investigated. The reaction can be used as a part of solar energy cycle that emits no green-house effects gases. The reactions produce heat and hydrogen that is mixed with oxygen and further generates water vapor and heat. The high temperature steam can be used to drive either internal or external combustion engines. Dynamics of the reactions has been investigated experimentally and compared to a simple model of Mg fuel pellet reaction with water vapor. Both experimental data and theoretical analysis found optimization of Mg and water mixing ratio for maximum momentum generation.