Abstract
Radioisotope thermoelectric generators (RTG) and heater units (RHU) systems are under development in Europe as part of a European Space Agency (ESA) program. The architectures for both RTG heat sources and RHUs have been evaluated under re-entry conditions as part to determine how the architecture would cope with launch safety re-entry scenarios considered as part of the ESA project. As a consequence of the modelling exercise, a number of carbon-carbon composite materials were selected to manufacture RTG and RHU aeroshells. These carbon-carbon composite materials have been subjected to laser ablation testing for primary screening and to determine thermal performance. Initial results of the models and laser testing are presented. Outline of some of the testing capabilities in Europe is provided.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | Nuclear and Emerging Technologies for Space, NETS 2018 |
Publisher | American Nuclear Society |
Pages | 158-161 |
Number of pages | 4 |
ISBN (Print) | 9781510859609 |
Publication status | Published - 2016 |
Event | Nuclear and Emerging Technologies for Space, NETS 2018 - Las Vegas, United States Duration: 26 Feb 2018 → 1 Mar 2018 |
Publication series
Name | Nuclear and Emerging Technologies for Space, NETS 2018 |
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Conference
Conference | Nuclear and Emerging Technologies for Space, NETS 2018 |
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Country/Territory | United States |
City | Las Vegas |
Period | 26/02/18 → 1/03/18 |
Bibliographical note
Funding Information:European Space Agency for funding the research program. Sue Horne and Nick Cox from the UK Space Agency for supporting this research program.
Publisher Copyright:
© 2016 American Nuclear Society. All Rights Reserved.
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Aerospace Engineering
- Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment
- Nuclear Energy and Engineering