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Critical design features of thermal-based radioisotope generators: A review of the power solution for polar regions and space

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  • Wang, Xiawa
  • Liang, Renrong
  • Fisher, Peter
  • Chan, Walker
  • Xu, Jun

Abstract

As one special type of sustainable energy source, radioisotopes have extremely high energy densities. Electrical generators using the decay heat from these radioisotopes can provide long-lasting power when other types of energy, such as solar or chemical energy, are not available. Starting from the 1960s, radioisotope generators were safely used in numerous space and terrestrial missions, and have powered systems from interstellar spacecraft to lighthouses along the arctic coast. This work reviewed the generator development and critical components that constitute a functional system. Started with a brief generator history, the paper focused on technological aspects including fuel manufacturing, energy conversion elements, thermal insulation, structural materials, prototype measurements, future improvements, and concluded with the safety aspects for both space and terrestrial applications. Radioisotope generators are one example of using nuclear energy in a peaceful way to benefit human be-ings. Plutonium fuel productions were resumed and accelerated in the United States and americium fuel research was actively sponsored by the European Space Agency. It is promis-ing that more and more high performance generators will be used in future land and space missions.

Suggested Citation

  • Wang, Xiawa & Liang, Renrong & Fisher, Peter & Chan, Walker & Xu, Jun, 2020. "Critical design features of thermal-based radioisotope generators: A review of the power solution for polar regions and space," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Elsevier, vol. 119(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:rensus:v:119:y:2020:i:c:s1364032119307804
    DOI: 10.1016/j.rser.2019.109572
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Yuan, Zicheng & Tang, Xiaobin & Xu, Zhiheng & Li, Junqin & Chen, Wang & Liu, Kai & Liu, Yunpeng & Zhang, Zhengrong, 2018. "Screen-printed radial structure micro radioisotope thermoelectric generator," Applied Energy, Elsevier, vol. 225(C), pages 746-754.
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    Cited by:

    1. Wang, Hongyu & Xu, Zhiheng & Wang, Chen & Hou, Zongbin & Bian, Mingxin & Zhuang, Nailiang & Tao, Haijun & Wang, Yuqiao & Tang, Xiaobin, 2024. "Optimized design and application performance analysis of heat recovery hybrid system for radioisotope thermophotovoltaic based on thermoelectric heat dissipation," Applied Energy, Elsevier, vol. 355(C).
    2. Matteo d’Angelo & Carmen Galassi & Nora Lecis, 2023. "Thermoelectric Materials and Applications: A Review," Energies, MDPI, vol. 16(17), pages 1-50, September.
    3. Wang, Hongyu & Xu, Zhiheng & Yuan, Zicheng & Liu, Kai & Meng, Caifeng & Tang, Xiaobin, 2022. "High-temperature and radiation-resistant spinel-type ferrite coating for thermo-optical conversion in radioisotope thermophotovoltaic generators," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 239(PD).

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