Insulator seal final test report, TFE Verification Program

摘要

The program objective was to demonstrate the technology readiness of a Thermionic Fuel Element (TFE) suitable for use as the basic element in a thermionic reactor with electric power output in the 0.5 to 5.0 MW(e) range, and with a full-power life of 7 years. This report documents one portion of the testing program, that of the Insulator seals. The insulator seal isolates the space filled with gaseous fission products from the cesium filled interelectrode gap. It also assures that electrons flow from the collector of one cell to the emitter of an axially adjacent cell. Fabrication, materials and testing information are presented.