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Selection of High Temperature Organic Materials for Future Stirling ConvertorsIn the future higher temperature Stirling convertors for improved efficiency and performance, various high temperature organic materials have been demanded as essential components for their unique properties and functions such as bonding, potting, sealing, thread locking, insulation, and lubrication. The higher temperature capabilities would also allow current state-of-the-art (SOA) convertors to be used in additional missions, particularly those that require a Venus flyby for a gravity assist. Stirling convertor radioisotope generators have been developed for potential future space applications including Lunar/Mars surface power or a variety of spacecraft and vehicles, especially with a long mission cycle, sometimes up to 17 years, such as deep space exploration. Thus, performance, durability, and reliability of the organics should be critically evaluated in terms of comprehensive structure-process-service environment relations based on the potential mission specifications. The initial efforts in screening the high temperature candidates focused on the most susceptible organics, such as adhesive, potting compound, o-ring, shrink tubing, and thread locker materials in conjunction with commercially available materials. More systematic and practical test methodologies that were developed and optimized based on the extensive organic evaluations and validations performed for various Stirling convertor types were employed to determine thermal stability, outgassing, and material compatibility of the selected organic candidates against their functional requirements. Processing and fabrication conditions and procedures were also optimized. This paper presents results of the three-step candidate evaluation processes, their application limitations, and the final selection recommendations.
Document ID
20170009622
Acquisition Source
Glenn Research Center
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Shin, Euy-Sik Eugene (Ohio Aerospace Inst. Cleveland, OH, United States)
Date Acquired
October 6, 2017
Publication Date
June 10, 2017
Subject Category
Structural Mechanics
Inorganic, Organic And Physical Chemistry
Energy Production And Conversion
Report/Patent Number
GRC-E-DAA-TN43180
Meeting Information
Meeting: AIAA Propulsion & Energy Forum 2017
Location: Atlanta, GA
Country: United States
Start Date: July 10, 2017
End Date: July 12, 2017
Sponsors: American Inst. of Aeronautics and Astronautics
Funding Number(s)
WBS: WBS 138494.04.18.01.03.01
CONTRACT_GRANT: NNC13BA10B
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Public Use Permitted.
Keywords
Organics
Stirling convertors
High temperature

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