Application of Metal Hydrides for Gas Handling in Hydrogen Masers,
Abstract
Reversible interaction of hydrogen with certain metals and alloys have been employed to effectively satisfy the hydrogen supply and flow regulation, as well as vacuum maintenance requirements of a hydrogen maser. In addition to providing a significant reductions in maser size, weight and power consumption, the hydride components also lead to improved system reliability. A hydrogen supply for seven years of operation of an oscillating compact maser can be stored in 50 grams of LaNi5 or LaNi4.7A10.3. The source occupies a volume of less than 50 cc, including an electrically controlled palladium-silver alloy flow regulator. A combination getter-ion vacuum pump system for the maser was developed using a zirconium graphite getter. Operational experience indicates that for reliable maser operation, a clean, bakeable vacuum system design is a critical requirement.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1983
- Accession Number
- ADP002444
Entities
People
- H. T. M. Wang
Organizations
- HRL Laboratories