FOR PLANAR CONVERTERS FOR RADIOISOTOPE GENERATORS.
Abstract
The feasibility of a dynamic cesium flow system (Integral Cesium Reservoir) and the development and evaluation of single-crystal tungsten emitters incorporated in planar converters are investigated. Efforts included measurements of the flow characteristics of various porous alumina ceramic plugs and stainless steel capillary tubes. Three plug-capillary combinations were found to be suitable for use in the Integral Cesium Reservoir. Tests with a cesium-graphite compound showed the cesium vapor pressure to vary over the range of 0.000001 to 0.001 torr for corresponding cesium-graphite temperatures in the range of 480 K to 680 K. Several single-crystal tungsten specimens, prepared from commercial material having (110) orientation, were subjected to various mechanical and thermal treatments. Two of these specimens, showing promising surface characteristics, were incorporated as emitters in planar thermionic converters. One converter (500-HP-1) was acceptance-tested and is prepared for life-testing. The second converter (500-HP-2) is now under assembly. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 31, 1966
- Accession Number
- AD0804099
Entities
People
- L. Van Someren
- T. Athanis