Title: SUBASSEMBLY TEST PROGRAM OUTLINE FOR FY 1969 AND 1970.

The objective of the DOE HTGR Program is the development of technology for the most important HTGR applications. Through this support, DOE seeks to encourage private sector initiatives which will lead to the development of commercially attractive HTGR applications that concurrently support national energy goals. Currently perceived as important to national energy goals are applications that primarily address the process heat market with a view toward reduction of national requirements for oil, natural gas and coal. A high priority during FY 1981, therefore, will be to further identify and define the details of the Technology Program so as to assuremore » that it is both necessary and sufficient to provide the required support. In the establishment of a supportive Technology Program, key elements which will be addressed are as follows: studies will be conducted to further identify and characterize important unique HTGR applications and to evaluate their potential in the context of market opportunities, utility/user interest, and national objectives to develop new energy supply options; based upon the configurations and operating characteristics projected for selected applications, Technology Program requirements must be identified to support development, verification, and ultimately licensing of components and systems comprising the facilities of interest; and in the context of limited resources, sufficient analysis and evaluation must be accomplished so as to prioritize technology elements in accordance with appropriately developed criteria.« less

A report comprising a literature and industrial survey on ion propellant systems and a comprehensive outline of the experimental test program and problems to be investigated is presented. Ths object of the one-year program, which began Mar. 15, 1960, is to construct, test, and deliver a complete prototype propellant system one year from initiation of program. A major portion of the program is directed toward the design and testing of component and system hardware. The results of the literature and industrial survey on ion engine development and cesium metal are included. Operation and theory of ion engines are reviewed. 59more » references. (auth)« less