Thermal Emission‐Enhanced and Optically Modulated Radioisotope Thermophotovoltaic Generators

Abstract

Infrared radiation generated by high‐energy‐density radioisotope decay can be converted to electrical energy in radioisotope thermophotovoltaic (RTPV) generators. Thermal emission intensity and spectral properties have substantial implications in this thermal energy conversion process. To improve the performance of the RTPV generator, a silicone coating material is used as a thermal emission enhancer, and SiO2 is used as a filter. The silicone coating has excellent thermal emissivity at high temperatures. The SiO2 filter is used for optical modulation during the thermal energy conversion process. The heat transfer optimization problem caused by the internal temperature distribution of the system is discussed. Compared with the experimental model before optimization, the output power of the RTPV generator increased by 126% obtains an open‐circuit voltage of 2.64 V, an electric power of 89.88 mW, and an energy conversion efficiency of 5.62%. The RTPV generator is expected to be a potential candidate for energy supply in extreme environments.

Iridium‐Based Selective Emitters for Thermophotovoltaic Applications

“…[56][57][58] With the present stateof-the-art TPV efficiency exceeding 30%, TPVs present significant advantages over thermoelectric generators, with efficiencies <6%, in, for example, remote power generation applications like deep-space and deep-sea explorations. [59][60][61] In recent developments, there has also been a surge in TPV-based thermal batteries. In these systems, heat energy stored at a grid scale, derived from renewable electricity, is converted by TPV back into electricity to meet demands during peak times.…”

High‐Performance Micro‐Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generator with Large‐Scale Integration of Multilayer Annular Arrays through Screen Printing and Stacking Coupling

“…To optimize their power density, the following points need to be considered: 1) high integration can be achieved through stacking; 2) power density can be increased through improved TE materials; 3) increased heat source can expand the battery output power and duration; and 4) energy management in integrated power systems needs to be properly designed to fit distributed wireless sensor networks. [30][31][32][33][34] In previous research, improvements were made to TE materials 2), and stack integration was initially achieved. The high-density stacking design 1) and extended heat source and device 3) proposed in this article improve the power density of miniaturized RTGs.…”