Reactor tests of a single thermionic element with tungsten emitter and 0.3- mm interelectrode gap

Translated from Zh. Tekh. Fiz.; 42: No. 11, 2439-2440(Nov A thermionic converter element with a tungsten emitter, a niobium collector, and 0.3 mm interelectrode gap is described. The element is tested in the loop channel of a water-cooled reactor using the ES-1-1 experimental setup. The pre-reactor testing procedure is outlined. The emitter temperature is determined from the temperature of a reference point on the end face of the element. The voltage - current characteristics of the element are given for various values of the thermal flux falling upon the emitter. The maximum specific power is 4.2 W/cm/ sup 2/ at a working voltage of 0.7 V; the efficiency is 9.7% and the maximum emitter temperature 1700 deg C. The experimental characteristics are in good agreement with theory. (auth)