AMTEC: current status and vision

Abstract

The history of alkali metal thermal-to-electric conversion (AMTEC) has been tantalizing as technical advances have struck down most of the remaining barriers for realization of practical applications. AMTEC has always offered promise with its inherently noise-free, vibration-free, and high efficiency operation. Today's AMTEC cells are also compact, lightweight and reliable, achieving near 20% conversion efficiency. Pathways have been defined that should lead to efficiencies of 30% or higher within two years. Prototype AMTEC devices are being built today for applications ranging from powering deep space probes (100-150 W) to residential appliance cogeneration (350-500 W) to remote and portable power units (10-500 W). Multi-kilowatt systems may be only two years away. Current designs have power densities of 100-200 W/kg. At the start of the new millennium AMTEC performance will exceed the numbers given above with the power capacity reaching 10 kW or more. These high power systems will also provide 100 volts or more when desired. Some AMTEC devices may be designed to operate at input temperatures well below that required today (800-900/spl deg/C), providing more flexibility on the choice of heat source. Realization of industrial and consumer applications for AMTEC will depend on manufacturing economies achieved through simplification of cell fabrication and high volume production. Advanced Modular Power Systems, Inc. is developing AMTEC manufacturing technology which may lead to costs under $25/watt within two years and under $1/watt eventually. At this cost, AMTEC devices will find broad consumer, and industrial applications.