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

Miniature solid-state gas compressor

Patent ·
OSTI ID:7246494
A miniature apparatus for compressing gases is disclosed in which an elastomer disposed between two opposing electrostrictive or piezoelectric ceramic blocks, or between a single electrostrictive or piezoelectric ceramic block and a rigid surface, is caused to extrude into or recede from a channel defined adjacent to the elastomer in response to application or removal of an electric field from the blocks. Individual cells of blocks and elastomer are connected to effect a gas compression by peristaltic activation of the individual cells. The apparatus is self-valving in that the first and last cells operate as inlet and outlet valves, respectively. Preferred electrostrictive and piezoelectric ceramic materials are disclosed, and an alternative, non-peristaltic embodiment of the apparatus is described. 9 figs.
DOE Contract Number:
W-7405-ENG-36
Assignee:
PTO; EDB-94-124959
Patent Number(s):
US 4515534; A
Application Number:
PPN: US 6-431447
OSTI ID:
7246494
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English