Numerical modeling of imposed magnetohydrodynamic effects in hypersonic flows

Weakly ionized plasmas, formed in high enthalpy hypersonic flows, can be actively manipulated via imposed magnetic fields—a concept termed magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) flow control. Imposed MHD effects, within flows that exhibit multiple shock interactions, are consequential for emerging aerospace technologies, including the possibility of replacing mechanical control surfaces with actuation. However, numerical modeling this type remains challenging due to sensitivity feature formation and real gas weakly ionized, electrically conductive, air plasma. In work, simulation capabilities have been developed study affected, around two-dimensional axisymmetric non-simple geometries. The validated methodology, combined an advanced 19 species equation state plasma, permits realistic efficient plasmas equilibrium regime. Quantitative agreement is achieved between experiment a Mach 5.6 double cone geometry applied field. context actuation concept, studies conducted varied conical surface angle field configuration. For simple geometries elemental type, enhancement effect produces self-similar structure. This paper demonstrates how, complex affected not only augmented terms position but may topological adaptations fundamental A classification system introduced emergent topologies identified work. Fluid-magnetic interactions explored explained coupled mechanisms leading (1) differences magnitude (2) structural topology. examine why increased does amplify as expected from base conditions, by which configuration influences Most critically, classes conditions produce equivalence interaction effects generalized surface.