A feasibility study of using thermoelectric converters for the LMFBR derivative ERATO-20 kWe space power system

The results of a feasibility study of using thermoelectric (TE) converters, instead of the He-Xe turbo-alternator, in the ERATO/UO/sub 2//Na/SS space nuclear power system are presented. The results demonstrate that using either PbTe or SiGe TE converters would not only reduce the overall system mass and enhance the overall system reliability, but would also make full use of the terrestrial LMFBR technology in France. The TE-ERATO power system, when coupled to an oversized, 140 m/sup 2/ radiator, in addition to offering better integration with the Ariane 5 launcher, possesses a specific power in excess of 10 We/kg.<>