Abstract
The alkali metal thermoelectric converter (AMTEC) is an efficient device for the direct conversion of heat to electricity. A new method to supply thermal energy to beta”-alumina solid electrolyte (BASE) tubes is proposed in this paper. Porous metal inserted between a high-temperature thermal source and the BASE tubes not only collects current generated from electrodes but also enhances the heat transfer. An experimental study has been conducted on the disturbance of vapor flow through the porous metal. Its effect on the AMTEC performance has been examined. The calculated results indicate that the sodium vapor flow resistance converted into temperatre difference is in the range from 20 K to 50 K and the expected increase of power density with porous metal current collection structure is ~50%. The influence of potential drop along the electrode is also discussed.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 1240-1245 |
Number of pages | 6 |
Journal | Nihon Kikai Gakkai Ronbunshu, B Hen/Transactions of the Japan Society of Mechanical Engineers, Part B |
Volume | 58 |
Issue number | 548 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 1992 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- Direct Energy Conversion
- Energy Conversion
- Heat Transfer Enhancement
- Porous Media
- Solid Electrolyte
- Thermal Efficiency
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Condensed Matter Physics
- Mechanical Engineering