The Cesium-137 Thermoelectric Generator

Designed for the initial application of supplying power for an under-sea seismic station to be supervised by Lamont Geological Observatory researchers, this cesium generator incorporates an external shell that will withstand compressive forces at the greatest of ocean depths and a power-conversion system employing lead telluride thermocouples mounted on a printed circuit board. A combination radiation shield and heat sink surrounded by a special complex of thermal relectors and compacted insulation, utilizes practically all of the decay heat. Avery high degree of safety from radioactivity is assured, due to double encapsulation of fuel increments, an ultrastrong radiation shield for containment of the latter, and an external shell that will withstand 16,000 psi pressure.