High efficiency thermionic converter studies

The objective is to improve thermionic converter performance by means of reduced interelectrode losses, greater emitter capabilities, and lower collector work functions until the converter performance level is suitable for out-of-core space reactors and radioisotope generators. Electrode screening experiments have identified several promising collector materials. Back emission work function measurements of a ZnO collector in a thermionic diode have given values less than 1.3 eV. Diode tests were conducted over the range of temperatures of interest for space power applications. Enhanced mode converter experiments have included triodes operated in both the surface ionization and plasmatron modes. Pulsed triodes were studied as a function of pulse length, pulse potential, inert gas fill pressure, cesium pressure, spacing, emitter temperature and collector temperature. Current amplifications (i.e., mean output current/mean grid current) of several hundred were observed up to output current densities of one amp/sq cm. These data correspond to an equivalent arc drop less than 0.1 eV

Computer-aided electronic circuit design. Conduction processes in thin films Status report, 1 Dec. 1965 - 31 May 1966

Computer aided electronic circuit design and conduction processes in thin film

Thin-Film Personal Communications and Telemetry System /TFPCTS/ Final report /phase A/, 21 Dec. 1964 - 21 Dec. 1965

Improved thin film triodes of cadmium selenide and tellurium, metal based transistor junctions, and substrate evaluatio

Planetary benchmarks

Design criteria and technology requirements for a system of radar reference devices to be fixed to the surfaces of the inner planets are discussed. Offshoot applications include the use of radar corner reflectors as landing beacons on the planetary surfaces and some deep space applications that may yield a greatly enhanced knowledge of the gravitational and electromagnetic structure of the solar system. Passive retroreflectors with dimensions of about 4 meters and weighing about 10 kg are feasible for use with orbiting radar at Venus and Mars. Earth-based observation of passive reflectors, however, would require very large and complex structures to be delivered to the surfaces. For Earth-based measurements, surface transponders offer a distinct advantage in accuracy over passive reflectors. A conceptual design for a high temperature transponder is presented. The design appears feasible for the Venus surface using existing electronics and power components

Development of a thin-film space-charge- limited triode Final report, Mar. 1965 - Jun. 1966

Development of thin film space charge limited triod

Computer-aided electronic circuit design, part I. Conduction processes in thin films, part II Status report, 1 Jun. - 30 Nov. 1965

Computer-aided electronic circuit design, and conduction processes in thin film

An investigation of the problems in a channelled electron image intensifier

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