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Radioisotope thermal photovoltaic application of the GaSb solar cellAn examination of a RTVP (radioisotopic thermophotovoltaic) conceptual design has shown a high potential for power densities well above those achievable with radioisotopic thermoelectric generator (RTG) systems. An efficiency of 14.4 percent and system specific power of 9.25 watts/kg were predicted for a system with sixteen GPHS (general purpose heat source) sources operating at 1100 C. The models also showed a 500 watt system power by the strontium-90 isotope at 1200 C at an efficiency of 17.0 percent and a system specific power of 11.8 watts/kg. The key to this level of performance is a high-quality photovoltaic cell with narrow bandgap and a reflective rear contact. Recent work at Boeing on GaSb cells and transparent back GaAs cells indicate that such a cell is well within reach.
Document ID
19910009897
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Morgan, M. D. (Boeing Aerospace Co. Seattle, WA, United States)
Horne, W. E. (Boeing Aerospace Co. Seattle, WA, United States)
Day, A. C. (Boeing Aerospace Co. Seattle, WA, United States)
Date Acquired
September 6, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1991
Publication Information
Publication: NASA, Lewis Research Center, Space Photovoltaic Research and Technology, 1989
Subject Category
Energy Production And Conversion
Accession Number
91N19210
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.

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