Proof-of-Principle Polymer Engine-Generator

Abstract

Abstract : Polymer engine-generators have outstanding potential advantages for DoD power generation needs including lightweight, simplicity, low cost, great design flexibility, and little or no noise signature. However, the temperature tolerance of the electroactive polymers is a technical risk for such devices. High gas temperatures are needed for high efficiency to be feasible. This project showed that polymer engines could operate successfully using gas temperatures in excess of 1000 C, more than sufficient to produce high potential efficiencies. Over 10000 cycles (the project target) were successfully demonstrated using propane and butane fuels, and much longer lifetimes are undoubtedly feasible. As with a conventional metal engine, the internal gas temperature is very high but the wall temperatures are much lower due to local wall cooling. Thus, wall temperatures are kept safely below polymer operating limits.