Solid-State Thermal Conductor for Space Reactor Heat Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Nuclear fission reactors for space applications face challenges due to complex designs with liquid coolant systems, which can lead to leakage and moving parts, increasing failure modes and maintenance requirements, and posing risks such as loss of coolant flow and exothermic reactions.
Innovation Solution
A solid state thermal conductor, primarily composed of graphene and high conductivity metal alloys, is integrated with the reactor core to transfer thermal energy without the need for liquid coolants, reducing moving parts and potential failure modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If a liquid coolant system is used to transfer thermal energy from the reactor core, then heat transfer efficiency is improved, but system complexity and failure risk increase due to pipes, moving parts, and potential leakage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the liquid coolant mechanical system with a solid state thermal conductor. This substitution eliminates pipes, pumps, and flowing coolant while maintaining thermal energy transfer from the reactor core, thereby improving reliability without sacrificing heat transfer capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state parameter of the thermal conductor from liquid (coolant) to solid state. This parameter change eliminates the need for containment structures and moving parts while preserving the thermal conduction function, resolving the contradiction between heat transfer efficiency and system reliability
2Temperature
If a liquid coolant system with pipes and pumps is used, then thermal energy can be transferred away from the core, but device complexity increases due to extensive pipe work and moving parts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes the complex mechanical coolant circulation system with a simple solid state thermal conductor directly integrated with the reactor core. This eliminates pipes, pumps, and control mechanisms while maintaining effective thermal energy transfer, dramatically reducing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the thermal conductor directly with the reactor core structure, eliminating the need for separate cooling system components. This integration removes boundaries between the core and cooling system, simplifying the overall device architecture while preserving thermal management functionality
3Temperature
If liquid coolant is used in the reactor system, then heat removal is effective, but potential harmful factors increase due to leakage risks and exothermic reactions with external materials
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the liquid coolant system with a solid state thermal conductor, eliminating the harmful effects of liquid leakage and exothermic reactions. The solid conductor inherently contains the thermal energy transfer function without the chemical reactivity and containment issues associated with liquid coolants
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the potential harm of liquid coolant leakage and chemical reactions into a benefit by using a solid state material that is inherently stable and non-reactive. The solid thermal conductor provides passive, reliable heat removal without the harmful side effects that would require additional safety systems
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This design enhances reactor reliability by eliminating coolant-related failures and simplifying maintenance, making it suitable for space exploration by efficiently converting thermal energy into electricity.
Implementation Method 1
a solid state thermal conductor extending into and thermally integrated with the reactor core, wherein the solid state thermal conductor is arranged to transfer thermal energy generated by the reactor core away from the reactor core
Data Source
AI summary
A thermal power reactor (100) includes a reactor core (102) that generates thermal energy and a solid state thermal conductor (106) extending into and thermally integrated with the reactor core (102). The solid state thermal conductor (106) transfers thermal energy generated by the reactor core (102) away from the reactor core (102).