Accession Number:

AD0872129

Title:

Nernst Energy Conversion in Thin Films,

Descriptive Note:

Corporate Author:

NAVAL ORDNANCE LAB WHITE OAK MD

Personal Author(s):

• McKnight, Thomas R.

Report Date:

1970-03-01

Pagination or Media Count:

284.0

Abstract:

The feasibility of practical Nernst energy conversion was investigated. The galvanomagnetic and thermomagnetic effects were reviewed. The theoretical equations describing the performance of a Nernst energy converter were developed in a macroscopic analysis of irreversible conduction processes in solids. Semimetals were determined to be the best available materials for the Nernst application. A thin film Nernst generator was constructed from epitaxial Bi films which produced an open circuit output voltage of 0.11 volt in a magnetic field of 14,400 gauss. The Nernst performance of pyrolytic graphite was investigated. The effect of heat treatment on its thermomagnetic performance was briefly examined. The engineering design implications of the experimental findings were discussed. A staged generator design was proposed. Author

Descriptors:

• (*ELECTRIC POWER PRODUCTION
• FEASIBILITY STUDIES)
• PYROLYTIC GRAPHITE
• BISMUTH
• EPITAXIAL GROWTH
• HALL EFFECT
• MAGNETIC FIELDS
• ENERGY CONVERSION
• THERMODYNAMICS
• FILMS

Subject Categories:

• Electric Power Production and Distribution
• Electricity and Magnetism

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE