Hi Cathryn. I'm sorry about not giving a general discreption of a Magneto-Hydrodynamic (MHD) generator. I'll will try to explain it as I know and understand it. I know there are various forms of MHD generators where the output varies from one type of generator to another based on the power used to drive the generator. From what I understand is that what makes these generators unique is that there are no moving parts. From what I've learned is that most of these generators were built in Japan for applications other then inducing earthquakes.

As earthquakes cannot (at least at present) be predicted with satisfactory accuracy, then perhaps their occurrence can in some way be influenced? A hint is provided by the recent discovery that seismicity can be affected by various natural and manmade disturbances, such as strong distant earthquakes, earth tides, etc. The present project aims at a thorough phenomenological, laboratory and theoretical investigation of a relatively novel trigger: controlled electromagnetic (EM) discharges. EM discharges have the obvious advantage over other triggering (control) means (e.g., explosions or vibration) that they are easy to manage and more environment-friendly. I haven't been able to learn as to how the EM is directed. I'm not sure if a quake can be induced from a remote location, or if it needs to be taken to the fault. I think a better understanding of the physics of the triggering mechanism (in particular of the coupling between the EM and stress fields) will have to be achieved. A method will have to be proposed that will permit control of the seismic regime to relieve tectonic stresses and mitigate seismic hazard in earthquake-prone regions. I feel that if this isn't done it may be possible to induce the quake they are trying to prevent.

Data from earthquake-prediction experiments in which seismically active regions of Central Asia were subjected to regular EM sounding with the aid of a magneto-hydrodynamic (MHD) generator will be analyzed by means of advanced statistical tools while looking for possible interrelations with other potential triggers, natural and manmade. The dynamic spatio-temporal behavior of induced seismicity will be studied by modern fractual/multifractal techniques. Laboratory tests will be performed on rock specimens with different mineral content, various dimensions (from several cubic centimeters up to tens and thousands of cubic centimeters) and different water content (from completely dry to fully saturated) in order to investigate the mechanisms of seismic/acoustic emission (fracturing) initiation by EM impulses.

Advanced statistical tools, incorporating pattern-recognition algorithms based on fuzzy mathematics, will be developed/adapted to permit simultaneous analysis of different geophysical data for possible (weak) interrelations. Fractal/multifractal techniques will be developed/adapted for the study of the spatio-temporal dynamics of seismicity. A rheological model of the faulting process in rock incorporating the electroseismic effect will be constructed. Take Care…Don in creepy town