Vaporization and compatibility of SiGe radioisotope thermoelectric generators.The limiting operating temperatures of SiGe thermoelectrics designed for extended operation are set by sublimation process of the elements and by considerations of their compatibility with the surrounding insulating elements. Mass spectrometric Knudsen cell and Langmuir vaporization modes of operation have been utilized in the study of the equilibrium vapor species and in the time evaluation of the sublimation process. Isothermal high-vacuum (1 ntorr) anneals of samples have extended observations to long-time spans. The time variations follow the formation of surface depletion layers due to disproportional rates of sublimation of the various species.
Document ID
19730037959
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Proceedings
Authors
Staley, H. G.
Rovner, L. H.
Snowden, D.
Elsner, N. B. (Gulf General Atomic Co. San Diego, Calif., United States)
Date Acquired
August 7, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1972
Subject Category
Nuclear Engineering
Meeting Information
Meeting: Intersociety Energy Conversion Engineering Conference