SEAL AND INSULATOR PROBLEMS IN THERMIONIC CONVERTERS.
Abstract
A discussion of the materials requirements for seals and insulators for thermionic energy converters is presented. Based on the requirements and published physical property data, A1203 appeared to be the most desirable insulator material at temperatures below its melting point. The study includes a discussion of metal ceramic sealing technology and a bibliography of publications in the field covering 1959, 1960, and part of 1961. The insulator was required to posses a reasonable value of electrical resistivity at temperatures which may reach as high 2000 K and the specific resistivity of candidate oxides was required to be as high above 100 ohm-cm as possible at any temperature at which it is to function. The thermal conductivity of the insulator was less important than the electrical conductivity but low thermal conductivity was desirable. The insulator-seal combination must be stable in the presence of fission products and have a low capture cross section for slow and fast neutrons. It must be a dense material with reliable physical and mechanical properties. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 12, 1962
- Accession Number
- AD0273481
Entities
Organizations
- IIT Research Institute