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U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Electric power generator. [Radioisotope-powered thermoelectric generator]

Patent ·
OSTI ID:7108817

An electric power generator of the type employing a nuclear heat source and a thermoelectric converter is described wherein a transparent thermal insulating medium is provided inside an encapsulating enclosure to thermally insulate the heat source and thermoelectric generator. The heat source, the thermoelectric converter, and the enclosure are provided with facing surfaces which are heat-reflective to a substantial degree to inhibit radiation of heat through the medium of the encapsulating enclosure. Multiple reflective foils may be spaced within the medium as necessary to inhibit natural convection of heat and/or further inhibit radiation.

Assignee:
General Atomic Co.
Patent Number(s):
US 4020368
OSTI ID:
7108817
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English