Abstract
Thermionic energy conversion is the direct conversion of heat into electricity by the mechanism of thermionic emission, the spontaneous ejection of hot electrons from a surface. Although the physical mechanism has been known for over a century, it has yet to be consistently realized in a manner practical for large-scale deployment. This perspective article provides an assessment of the potential of thermionic energy conversion systems for space and terrestrial applications in the 21st century, overviewing recent advances in the field and identifying key research challenges. Recent developments as well as persisting research needs in materials, device design, fundamental understanding, and testing and validation are discussed.
Highlights
The direct conversion of heat to electricity without any intermediate steps or moving parts remains one of the most promising, yet challenging, methods of power production
Well suited for high-temperature applications, since it was first proposed by Schlichter (1915), thermionic emission has been pursued as a power generation method for over a century (Hatsopoulos and Gyftopoulos, 1973, 1979), yet has seldom been realized in either space or terrestrial applications
In October, 2014, a Workshop on Thermionic Energy Conversion for Space and Earth was held in Houston, TX (United States) to bring together researchers, thought leaders, and stake holders to discuss the current state of Thermionic energy conversion (TEC) and opportunities and needs for future research and development to address the challenges
Summary
The direct conversion of heat to electricity without any intermediate steps or moving parts remains one of the most promising, yet challenging, methods of power production. Since that time the TEC research community has responded by discovering and inventing new and novel approaches to devices, materials, and operating strategies that highlight the potential of TEC to achieve the high conversion efficiency and performance predicted by theory As both space and terrestrial energy needs continue to grow, it is compelling but necessary to develop new technologies for power generation. In October, 2014, a Workshop on Thermionic Energy Conversion for Space and Earth was held in Houston, TX (United States) to bring together researchers, thought leaders, and stake holders to discuss the current state of TEC and opportunities and needs for future research and development to address the challenges. We conclude with “Summary and Final Thoughts,” which offers some perspectives and suggestions for a path forward
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