Nuclear Batteries and Radioisotopes
Nuclear Batteries and Radioisotopes

Author: Mark Prelas

Publisher: Springer

Published: 2016-08-04

Total Pages: 363

ISBN-13: 331941724X

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This book explains the physics of nuclear battery operation. It provides a comprehensive background that allows readers to understand all past and future developments in the field. The supply and cost of radioisotopes for use in applications (focused on nuclear batteries) are covered in the initial sections of the text. The interaction of ionizing radiation with matter is discussed as applied to nuclear batteries. The physics of interfacing the radioisotopes to the transducers which represent the energy conversion mechanism for nuclear batteries are described for possible nuclear battery configurations. Last but not least the efficiencies of nuclear battery configurations are discussed combined with a review of the literature on nuclear battery research.

The Technology of Discovery
The Technology of Discovery

Author: David Friedrich Woerner

Publisher: John Wiley & Sons

Published: 2023-03-21

Total Pages: 340

ISBN-13: 1119811368

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The Technology of Discovery Incisive discussions of a critical mission-enabling technology for deep space missions In The Technology of Discovery: Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generators and Thermoelectric Technologies for Space Exploration, distinguished JPL engineer and manager David Woerner delivers an insightful discussion of how radioisotope thermoelectric generators (RTGs) are used in the exploration of space. It also explores their history, function, their market potential, and the governmental forces that drive their production and design. Finally, it presents key technologies incorporated in RTGs and their potential for future missions and design innovation. The author provides a clear and understandable treatment of the subject, ranging from straightforward overviews of the technology to complex discussions of the field of thermoelectrics. Included is also background on NASA’s decision to resurrect the GPHS-RTG and discussion of the future of commercialization of nuclear space missions. Readers will also find: A thorough introduction to RTGs, as well as their invention, history, and evolution Comprehensive explorations of the contributions made by RTGs to US space exploration Practical discussions of the evolution, selection, and production of RPS fuels In-depth examinations of technologies and generators currently in development, including skutterudite thermoelectrics for an enhanced MMRTG Perfect for space explorers, aerospace engineers, managers, and scientists, The Technology of Discovery will also earn a place in the libraries of NASA archivists and other historians.

Engineering in Medicine
Engineering in Medicine

Author: M. Schaldach

Publisher: Springer Science & Business Media

Published: 2012-12-06

Total Pages: 549

ISBN-13: 3642661874

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After more than a decade of successful application of cardiac pace makers in the therapy of cardiac rhythm disorders, technological and clinical experience has reached a level, at which a technical survey of this field should be of general interest and might promote the further improvement of pace maker therapy. The papers contained in this book were presented at the International Symposium on Advances in Pacemaker Technology, held at Erlangen on Sep tember 26 and 27,1974 under the auspices of the Societas Physica Medica Erlangensis. One of the traditional aims of the Societas has been the advance ment of diagnosis and therapy by the adaptation of medical skill to modern technology and scientific engineering conceptions. The major objective of this book is to present, in expanded form, the lectures given by internationally known basic and clinical researchers in the field of artificial pacing of the heart and to make that information available to a wider public. The experience discussed covers the principles and main methods of pacing using implantable and external, fixed rate, R-wave or P-wave triggered pacemakers with electrodes placed in the myocardium either surgically or transvenously, and powered by zinc-mercury oxide or rechargeable batteries. Particular emphasis was put on problems of pressing importance at the present time, such as the increase of pacemaker longevity with lithium iodide and nuclear-powered batteries or improved electrodes, as well as the postoperative management of a steadily increasing number of pacemaker patients.

The Technological and Economic Future of Nuclear Power
The Technological and Economic Future of Nuclear Power

Author: Reinhard Haas

Publisher: Springer

Published: 2019-04-26

Total Pages: 382

ISBN-13: 3658259876

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This open access book discusses the eroding economics of nuclear power for electricity generation as well as technical, legal, and political acceptance issues. The use of nuclear power for electricity generation is still a heavily disputed issue. Aside from technical risks, safety issues, and the unsolved problem of nuclear waste disposal, the economic performance is currently a major barrier. In recent years, the costs have skyrocketed especially in the European countries and North America. At the same time, the costs of alternatives such as photovoltaics and wind power have significantly decreased.