SBIR/STTR
Development of high efficiency thermionic power generator, Phase I
Project Introduction
In space exploration missions where photovoltaic power generation is inadequate due to a lack of sunlight, and for missions with moderate power draw and increased mobility requirements, thermal-to-electric power generator systems using radioisotopes as heat sources provides NASA with a viable solution. Nanohmics Inc. proposes to develop a novel high efficiency thermionic thermal-to-electric converter (TTEC) using nanostructured emitters for integration with radioisotope thermoelectric generators application. The emitter material employed in the proposed TTEC device allows the device to be operated in harsh and high temperature environment.
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Anticipated Benefits
Potential NASA Commercial Applications: The successful development of high efficiency thermionic power generators will improve energy conversion efficiency, specific power, and life time of RTGs power supply system, which will benefit to the W-MW power supply systems for NASA deep space exploration. They can be also integrated with nuclear power system to convert nuclear energy to electricity for space applications.
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Primary U.S. Work Locations and Key Partners
| Organizations Performing Work | Role | Type | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
Jet Propulsion Laboratory
(JPL)
|
Lead Organization | NASA Center | Pasadena, CA |
| Nanohmics, Inc. | Supporting Organization | Industry | Austin, TX |
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Organizational Responsibility
Responsible Mission Directorate:
- Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD)
Lead Center / Facility:
- Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL)
Responsible Program:
- SBIR/STTR
Project Management
Program Director:
Program Manager:
Principal Investigator:
- Steve Savoy
Project Duration
Start: Jun 2015
End: Dec 2015
Technology Maturity (TRL)
| Start: | 2 |
| Current: | 4 |
| Estimated End: | 4 |
Applied Research
Development
Demo & Test
Technology Areas
Primary:
- TA 10 Nanotechnology
- TA 10.2 Energy Storage, Power Generation, and Power Distribution
- TA 10.2.2 Power Generation
Other / Cross-cutting:
- TA 3 Space Power and Energy Storage
- TA 3.1 Power Generation
- TA 3.1.4 Radioisotope
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