STUDY OF MATERIALS FOR THERMIONIC CONVERTERS
Abstract
This program was concerned with an examination of the fundamental properties of materials, from a solid-state physics and chemistry point of view, with regard to those properties which most influence their performance in thermionic converters. The underlying structural causes which determine the values of such material properties as work function, electron affinity, heat of vaporization, vapor pressure, thermal conductivity, Fermi level, etc. were examined for metals, insulators, and semiconductors. Both quantitative calculations and qualitative correlations for various material classes are discussed. In connection with this study, a compilation was made of experimentally determined thermionic work functions and Richardson A values for most non-elemental emitters.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 31, 1961
- Accession Number
- AD0273533
Entities
People
- Harold Homonoff
- Philip Goodman