Advanced electrodes for AMTEC

Texas A&M University has begun an investigation of materials and fabrication methods which will improve AMTEC electrode performance. The study currently involves gathering data on materials which meet the basic requirements of operating in an AMTEC cell, and sorting out candidates possessing characteristics conducive to efficient AMTEC operation. An initial assessment has shown Iridium as a promising metal electrode candidate. Sodium-containing double-oxides, with melting temperatures above AMTEC operating temperatures, including NaNbO3 and Na2Ti3O7, have been identified as possible electrode dopants, to enhance the sodium conductivity of an electrode. Photo-deposition and Evaporative-deposition will be investigated further as electrode fabrication techniques.