Title :
Thermionic nuclear reactors
Author :
Gyftopoulos, E. P. ; Hatsopoulos, G. N.
Author_Institution :
Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Mass.
fDate :
3/1/1963 12:00:00 AM
Abstract :
The coupling of nuclear reactors with thermionic converters is reviewed. First, the paper discusses principles of operation of thermionic converters, together with present and anticipated advancements. Particular emphasis is given to parameters that influence optimum performance and life of converters; namely, work function of emitter and collector, spacing between the same, temperatures of operation, cesium vapor pressure, and materials. The discussion is illustrated by a series of experimental results and amplified by theoretical analysis.
Keywords :
Electric potential; Electrodes; Inductors; Ions; Materials; Metals; Space charge;
Journal_Title :
American Institute of Electrical Engineers, Part I: Communication and Electronics, Transactions of the
DOI :
10.1109/TCE.1963.6373307
