NUCLEAR BATTERY-THERMOCOUPLE TYPE SUMMARY REPORT

Technical Report · Sat Oct 01 00:00:00 EDT 1960

DOI:https://doi.org/10.2172/4807049· OSTI ID:4807049

Blanke, B C; Birden, J H; Jordan, K C; Murphy, E L

The potential usefulness of approximately 1300 radioactive isotopes as a heat source for the thermoelectric generator was investigated. Only 47 were found to have the proper characteristics of high specific activity and usable haif-life combined with an easily absorbable radiation. These isotopes are discussed showing possible sources of supply, the hazards involved, and the expected performance. Three large Po/sup 210/ heat sources were designed and constructed (for battery use), including one for the SNAP III generator. One small Tl/sup 204/ test heat source was made by irradiation. Eight thermoelectric generators were developed and two of these were used as thermoelectric batteries. Theoretical equations for non-semiconductor thermoelectric materials and experimental measurements to verify the Thompson and Peltier effects are given. (auth)

• Research Organization: Mound Plant (MOUND), Miamisburg, OH (United States)
• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE
• DOE Contract Number: AT(33-1)-GEN-53; R-65-8-99811-SC-03-91
• NSA Number: NSA-16-011995
• OSTI ID: 4807049
• Report Number(s): MLM-1127
• Resource Relation: Other Information: Orig. Receipt Date: 31-DEC-62
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

INDUSTRIAL APPLICATIONS OF ISOTOPES AND RADIATIONS
BATTERIES
GENERATORS
HALF-LIFE
HEATING
IRRADIATION
MATHEMATICS
MEASURED VALUES
PELTIER EFFECT
POLONIUM 210
RADIOISOTOPES
TESTING
THALLIUM 204
THERMOCOUPLES
THERMOELECTRICITY
THOMSON EFFECT
USES
NESDPS Office of Nuclear Energy Space and Defense Power Systems