Development and improvement of thermoelectric generator modules for a space nuclear power system

Ways to improve the components of a high-temperature silicon-germanium thermoelectric module with radial-annular geometry of thermoelements for use in space nuclear power systems with specific heat fluxes 30–70 W/cm2 at temperatures ∼1200 K are presented. Certain structural elements, which make a thermoelectric converter realistic, such as an electrical insulation unit and a thermojunction which damps stresses, have been developed. The reasons for the losses of thermoelectric efficiency in previously developed thermoelectric modules based on a silicon-germanium alloy are analyzed. The processes responsible for the degradation of thermoelectric modules and determining their service life are determined.