Two-Stage Thermionic Converter

Recent advances enable thermionic converters to achieve energy conversion efficiencies of up to 30%. Advanced Energy Technology will explore this technology for nuclear space power. High efficiency means that more power can be obtained with a smaller system radiator; this reduces spacecraft mass and increases manueverability, as well as improved packaging. Our converter is inherently survivable against laser and nuclear threats - in fact, it can continue to operate and produce power at elevated heat sink temperatures. Its modular for survivability against pellet threats. This device uses SAVTEC close-spaced thermionic converter technology and barium-cesium thermionic converter technology. High efficiency is achieved by an optimized two-stage configuration. Potential uses of the conversion technology with non-nuclear heat sources are more efficient terrestial commercial power plants and cogeneration of electricity in industry.