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Completed TRL 3 (started at 1, targeting 3)
In this study, we will analyze a new method to convert heat to electrical power, the thermoradiative cell. While theoretical analyses suggest that thermoradiative cells could have energy conversion efficiencies higher than existing solid-state energy conversion technologies, so far theoretical analyses have neglected real-world losses. This sudy will make an analysis of thermoradiative conversion for space applications, analyze potential barriers to high efficiency, and outline what experiments and measurements will be needed to develop the technology.
The benefit of this study will be to understand an emerging technology that has ground-breaking performance in theory, but has yet to be demonstrated in the real world, and outline a path to developing a technology for space missions.
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This is early/mid-stage (TRL 3) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.
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