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Optimize out-of-core thermionic energy conversion for nuclear electric propulsionThermionic energy conversion (TEC) potentialities for nuclear electric propulsion (NEP) are examined. Considering current designs, their limitations, and risks raises critical questions about the use of TEC for NEP. Apparently a reactor cooled by hotter-than-1675 K heat pipes has good potentialities. TEC with higher temperatures and greater power densities than the currently proposed 1650 K, 5-to-6 W/sq cm version offers substantial gains. Other approaches to high-temperature electric isolation appear also promising. A high-power-density, high-temperature TEC for NEP appears, therefore, attainable. It is recommended to optimize out-of-core thermionic energy conversion for nuclear electric propulsion. Although current TEC designs for NEP seem unnecessary compared with Brayton versions, large gains are apparently possible with increased temperatures and greater power densities.
Document ID
19790029086
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Morris, J. F.
(NASA Lewis Research Center Thermionics and Heat-Pipe Section, Cleveland, Ohio, United States)
Date Acquired
August 9, 2013
Publication Date
May 1, 1978
Subject Category
Energy Production And Conversion
Meeting Information
Meeting: Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, International Conference on Plasma Science
Location: Monterey, CA
Start Date: May 15, 1978
End Date: May 18, 1978
Sponsors: Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers
Accession Number
79A13099
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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