Keywords: direct conversion, hetero-structure, nano-structure, nuclear fuel
The direct conversion of nuclear energy becomes possible in hetero-nanostructures. To convert the kinetic energy of the fission product into electricity it has to be created a nanostructure formed from a repetitive conductor-insulator structure generically called “CIci”.Its operation is based on the difference of electron shower intensity between the two conducting materials which makes that the electrons generated in the first conductor to pass through insulator and absorb in the second conductor, while this one producing a very small shower to pass in the next conductor so the conductors are polarizing. The conversion efficiency of such structures may be higher than 80%, and can be improved by quantum effects. To deliver the harvested energy outside the reactor zone a cascade of DC/AC and AC/AC micro converters have to be added at short distances inside. Because the fission energy transforms into electricity there is less energy left for heating the structure so the reactor will run cold. If superconductor structures is used the DC/AC converter may be achieved by using a SQUID Josephson junction. The direct nuclear energy conversion removes the actual thermo-mechanic devices with associated heat exchangers with higher efficiency, transforming the nuclear reactor into a solid-state electricity generator.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: Technical Proceedings of the 2007 Clean Technology Conference and Trade Show
Published: May 20, 2007
Pages: 53 - 56
Industry sectors: Advanced Materials & Manufacturing | Energy & Sustainability
Topic: Energy Storage
ISBN: 1-4200-6382-0