Plasma separation process. Betacell (BCELL) code, user's manual
Abstract
The emergence of clearly defined applications for (small or large) amounts of long-life and reliable power sources has given the design and production of betavoltaic systems a new life. Moreover, because of the availability of the Plasma Separation Program, (PSP) at TRW, it is now possible to separate the most desirable radioisotopes for betacell power generating devices. A computer code, named BCELL, has been developed to model the betavoltaic concept by utilizing the available up-to-date source/cell parameters. In this program, attempts have been made to determine the betacell energy device maximum efficiency, degradation due to the emitting source radiation and source/cell lifetime power reduction processes. Additionally, comparison is made between the Schottky and PN junction devices for betacell battery design purposes. Certain computer code runs have been made to determine the JV distribution function and the upper limit of the betacell generated power for specified energy sources. A Ni beta emitting radioisotope was used for the energy source and certain semiconductors were used for the converter subsystem of the betacell system. Some results for a Promethium source are also given here for comparison.
- Publication:
-
Unknown
- Pub Date:
- November 1987
- Bibcode:
- 1987pspb.rept.....T
- Keywords:
-
- Beta Particles;
- Plasmas (Physics);
- Radioisotope Batteries;
- Semiconductor Devices;
- Efficiency;
- Gallium Arsenides;
- Manuals;
- Radiation Effects;
- Plasma Physics