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Thermoelectronic laser energy conversion for power transmission in spaceLong distance transmission of power in space by means of laser beams is an attractive concept because of the very narrow beam divergence. Such a system requires efficient means to both generate the laser beam and to convert the light energy in the beam into useful electric output at the receiver. A plasma-type device known as a Thermo-Electronic Laser Energy Converter (TELEC) has been studied as a method of converting a 10.6 micron CO2 laser beam into electric power. In the TELEC process, electromagnetic radiation is absorbed directly in the plasma electrons producing a high electron temperature. The energetic electrons diffuse out of the plasma striking two electrodes with different areas. Since more electrons are collected by the larger electrode there is a net transport of current, and an EMF is generated in the external circuit. The smaller electrode functions as an electron emitter to provide continuity of the current. Waste heat is rejected from the large electrode. A design for a TELEC system with an input 1 MW laser beam was developed as part of the study. The calculated performance of the system showed an overall efficiency of about 42%.
Document ID
19770066024
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Proceedings
Authors
Britt, E. J.
(Rasor Associates, Inc. Sunnyvale, CA, United States)
Yuen, C.
(Rasor Associates, Inc. Sunnyvale, Calif., United States)
Date Acquired
August 9, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1977
Subject Category
Energy Production And Conversion
Meeting Information
Meeting: Intersociety Energy Conversion Engineering Conference
Location: Washington, DC
Start Date: August 28, 1977
End Date: September 2, 1977
Accession Number
77A48876
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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