Project Title:
Utilization of Low- to Medium-Temperature Waste Heat
09.07-8200
910376
Utilization of Low- to Medium-Temperature Waste Heat
Chronos Research Laboratories, Inc.
4186 Sorrento Valley Blvd, Suite H
San Diego
CA
92121
Randall B.
Olsen
619-455-8200
GSFC
NAS5-31927
192
09.07-8200
910376
Abstract:
Utilization of Low- to Medium-Temperature Waste Heat
Recent advances in pyroelectrics have provided materials that may be useful in the
direct conversion of heat into electrical energy in space systems. These materials
will be manufactured at a low cost and will provide an ultra-lightweight means of
generating electrical power from a system with no moving solid parts. A relatively
new technology, pyroelectric conversion has the potential for high reliability and
efficiency. Phase I will measure the useful lifetime of pyroelectric conversion material
with a newly fabricated, experimental apparatus. The properties of this advanced
material will be followed for extended time periods since it is subject to the thermal
and electrical cycling conditions that will exist in pyroelectric energy converters.
In addition to space power systems, pyroelectric converters are expected to convert
low temperature heat economically into electrical energy in terrestrial systems with
payback times of less than 2 years.
pyroelectric, direct conversion, lightweight power sources, batteries