SOLAR THERMOELECTRIC GENERATORS FOR APPLICATION OUTSIDE THE EARTH'S ATMOSPHERE
Abstract
Results are presented of a basic research project in two phases to determine feasibility of solar thermoelec ric generators outside of the earth's atmosphere. It was concluded that simultaneous solutions of two problems are required: (1) Solar energy collection and he t sink radiation efficiency must be as high as possible to obtain the widest possible temperature difference between the hot and cold junctions of the thermoelectric generator. Using selective absorbing and radiating surfaces on flat-plate collectors, and 10- to 20-fold concentrating collectors, a temperature difference of 200 to 520 C can be reached with a collection efficiency in excess of 50%; and (2) Thermoelectric efficiency with materials presently available can reach 9% efficiency with a factor of merit Z = 0.002 per C. With Z = 0.004, an efficiency of 19% could be att ined at 500 C temperature difference. Flatplate and oriented concentrating collectors ar also iscu s d. Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 1960
- Accession Number
- AD0269180